Hybrid Connector

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hybrid connector comprising: a first substrate connector for electrically connecting to a first module; a first printed circuit board on which the first substrate connector is mounted; a coaxial cable for electrically connecting to a second module spaced apart from the first module; a first fixing part mounted on the first printed circuit board and fixing the coaxial cable electrically connected to the first substrate connector to the first printed circuit board; and a first cover shell accommodating the first substrate connector and the first printed circuit board, wherein the first substrate connector is electrically connected to the first module through a first connection hole formed in the first cover shell, and the first fixing part is grounded to provide shielding power for the coaxial cable.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hybrid connector that implements an electrical connection using a coaxial cable and a circuit board connector. Background Technology

[0002] A connector is provided in various electronic devices for electrical connection. For example, connectors are installed in electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers, and tablet computers to electrically connect various components installed within the device.

[0003] Generally, among electronic devices, wireless communication devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs are equipped with RF connectors that transmit RF (Radio Frequency) signals, and board-to-board connectors (hereinafter referred to as 'board connectors') that process digital signals from cameras, etc.

[0004] FIG. 1 is a conceptual perspective view showing an electrical connection method using conventional circuit board connectors.

[0005] Referring to FIG. 1, when a first module (11) and a second module (12) are spaced apart from each other in an electronic device (10), conventionally, the first module (11) and the second module (12) are electrically connected using a first board connector (14) and a second board connector (15) that are electrically connected to each other through a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB, 13).

[0006] The flexible circuit board (13) has flexibility, enabling electrical connection using board connectors (14, 15) not only when the first module (11) and the second module (12) are spaced apart from each other, but also when the first module (11) and the second module (12) are arranged to face different directions.

[0007] However, since the unit cost of the flexible circuit board (13) is higher than that of a standard printed circuit board (PCB), there is a problem of increasing the cost of electrically connecting modules (11, 12) that are spaced apart from each other. In addition, this problem becomes more severe as the distance between the first module (11) and the second module (12) increases. The problem to be solved

[0008] The present invention was devised to solve the problems described above and aims to provide a hybrid connector that can reduce the cost of electrically connecting modules spaced apart from each other. means of solving the problem

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention may include the following configuration.

[0010] A hybrid connector according to the present invention may include: a first substrate connector for electrically connecting to a first module; a first printed circuit board on which the first substrate connector is mounted; a coaxial cable for electrically connecting to a second module spaced apart from the first module; a first fixing part mounted on the first printed circuit board and fixing the coaxial cable electrically connected to the first substrate connector to the first printed circuit board; and a first cover shell accommodating the first substrate connector and the first printed circuit board. The first substrate connector may be electrically connected to the first module through a first connection hole formed in the first cover shell. The first fixing part may be grounded to provide shielding for the coaxial cable. Effects of the invention

[0011] According to the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.

[0012] The present invention is implemented to electrically connect a first module and a second module that are spaced apart from each other using a board connector and a coaxial cable. Accordingly, the present invention enables electrical connection through a board connector using a coaxial cable, which is relatively cheaper than a flexible circuit board, not only when the first module and the second module are spaced apart from each other but also when the first module and the second module are arranged to face different directions. Accordingly, the present invention can reduce the cost of electrically connecting the first module and the second module that are spaced apart from each other.

[0013] The present invention is implemented as a hybrid connection structure that utilizes a coaxial cable while being electrically connected to a first module through a board connector. Accordingly, the present invention can reduce the cost of electrically connecting a first module and a second module that are spaced apart from each other, and can be implemented in a manner suitable for transmitting multiple signals. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0014] FIG. 1 is a conceptual perspective view illustrating a conventional electrical connection method using circuit board connectors. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a conceptual plan view showing a hybrid connector according to the present invention electrically connected to a first module and a second module. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is a conceptual side view showing a coaxial cable being electrically connected to a first printed circuit board in a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged first connection portion of a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 7 is a conceptual plan view showing a hybrid connector according to the present invention in which a coaxial cable is electrically connected to a first board connector through a first printed circuit board. FIG. 8 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a first connection portion in a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the first printed circuit board coupled to the first cover shell along line II of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a first substrate connector in a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a first substrate connector in a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 12 is a conceptual plan view for explaining the ground loop of the first substrate connector in a hybrid connector according to the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of a hybrid connector according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view showing an enlarged second connection portion of a hybrid connector according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a second connecting portion in a hybrid connector according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a hybrid connector according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0016] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention may be installed in an electronic device (not shown), such as a mobile phone, computer, tablet computer, etc. The hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention may also be applied to a communication device such as a Customer-Premises Equipment (CPE). The hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention may be used to electrically connect a first module (110) and a second module (120) that are spaced apart from each other in an electronic device. For example, the first module (110) may be an antenna module, and the second module (120) may be a driving module that drives the antenna module, a transmitting and receiving module that transmits and receives signals with the antenna module, etc.

[0017] A hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention may include a coaxial cable (2) and a first connecting part (3). The coaxial cable (2) is intended to electrically connect the first connecting part (3) and the second module (120). The first connecting part (3) is intended to be electrically connected to the first module (110). The first connecting part (3) may include a first printed circuit board (31), a first fixing part (32) for fixing the coaxial cable (2) to the first printed circuit board (31), a first cover shell (33) for housing the first printed circuit board (31), and a first board connector (34) mounted on the first printed circuit board (31) to be electrically connected to the first module (110).

[0018] Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented to electrically connect the first module (110) and the second module (120), which are spaced apart from each other, using the coaxial cable (2) and the first substrate connector (34) of the first connecting part (3). Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can implement electrical connection through the first substrate connector (34) using the coaxial cable (2), which is relatively cheaper than the flexible circuit board (13, shown in FIG. 1), not only when the first module (110) and the second module (120) are spaced apart from each other, but also when the first module (110) and the second module (120) are arranged to face different directions. Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can reduce the cost of electrically connecting the first module (110) and the second module (120) when compared to a comparative example using a flexible circuit board (13, shown in FIG. 1). In addition, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented as a hybrid connection structure that is electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first board connector (34) while using the coaxial cable (2). Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can be implemented to be more suitable for transmitting multiple signals when compared to a comparative example using only the coaxial cable (2).

[0019] The above coaxial cable (2), the first printed circuit board (31), the first fixing part (32), the first cover shell (33), and the first board connector (34) will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0020] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 8, the coaxial cable (2) electrically connects the first module (110) and the second module (120) which are spaced apart from each other. One end of the coaxial cable (2) may be electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first connecting part (3), and the other end may be electrically connected to the second module (120). The coaxial cable (2) may have flexibility.

[0021] The above coaxial cable (2) may include a first connecting member (21), a second connecting member (22), and a cable member (23).

[0022] The first connecting member (21) is mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). The first connecting member (21) can be electrically connected to the first board connector (34) through the first printed circuit board (31). Accordingly, the first connecting member (21) can be electrically connected to the first module (11) through the first printed circuit board (31) and the first board connector (34). The first connecting member (21) can be electrically connected to the first wiring pattern (311, shown in FIG. 7) formed on the first printed circuit board (31), thereby being electrically connected to the first board connector (34) through the first wiring pattern (311).

[0023] The first connecting member (21) may include a first connecting pin (211) and a first shield member (212).

[0024] The first connection pin (211) can be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (31) by being connected to the first printed circuit board (31). In this case, the first connection pin (211) can be connected to the first wiring pattern (311). The first connection pin (211) can be electrically connected to the second module (120) through the cable member (23) and the second connecting member (22).

[0025] The first shield member (212) is for shielding. The first shield member (212) may be arranged to surround the outer side of a conductive member (not shown) coupled to the first connection pin (211). An insulating member may be arranged between the first shield member (212) and the conductive member. In this case, the insulating member may be arranged to surround the conductive member. The first shield member (212) may be connected to the first fixing part (32) and grounded, thereby enabling a shielding function for signals, electromagnetic waves, etc., to the conductive member. Meanwhile, the conductive member and the first shield member (212) may be formed to extend to the cable member (23) and the second connecting member (22). In this case, the cable member (23) may include a covering member arranged to surround the first shield member (212).

[0026] The second connecting member (22) is electrically connected to the second module (120). The second connecting member (22) may be positioned on the opposite side of the first connecting member (21) with respect to the cable member (23). The second connecting member (22) may be directly electrically connected to the second module (120). In this case, the second connecting member (22) may be connected to a connection mechanism (121, shown in FIG. 2) having the second module (120).

[0027] The cable member (23) is coupled to each of the first connecting member (21) and the second connecting member (22). The first connecting member (21) may be positioned on one side of the cable member (23), and the second connecting member (22) may be positioned on the other side of the cable member (23). Through the cable member (23), the first connecting member (21) and the second connecting member (22) may be positioned spaced apart from each other. The cable member (23) may have flexibility. Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented to increase the degree of freedom regarding the positioning of the first connecting member (21) and the second connecting member (22) by utilizing the length and flexibility of the cable member (23). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can improve versatility in electrically connecting a first module (110) and a second module (120) implemented with various lengths and various arrangements. In this case, depending on the arrangement of the first module (110) and the second module (120), the cable member (23) can be bent using flexibility.

[0028] The hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention may include a plurality of coaxial cables (2). Each of the coaxial cables (2, 2') may have one end electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first connection part (3) and the other end electrically connected to the second module (120). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can increase the number of signals that can be transmitted using the coaxial cables (2, 2'). In addition, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention may have the other end of the coaxial cables (2, 2') electrically connected to different second modules (120). Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can improve versatility so that it can be applied to a wider variety of electronic devices.

[0029] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 8, the first connecting part (3) may include the first printed circuit board (31), the first fixing part (32), the first cover shell (33), and the first board connector (34).

[0030] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 8, the first printed circuit board (31) has the first board connector (34) mounted on it. The coaxial cable (2) may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). In this case, the first connecting member (21) of the coaxial cable (2) may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). The first printed circuit board (31) may electrically connect the first board connector (34) and the coaxial cable (2). In this case, the first wiring pattern (311) that electrically connects the first board connector (34) and the coaxial cable (2) may be formed on the first printed circuit board (31). A first connection pin (211) of the first connecting member (21) may be connected to the first wiring pattern (311). When the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of coaxial cables (2, 2'), a plurality of first wiring patterns (311, 311') (shown in FIG. 7) may be formed on the first printed circuit board (31). The coaxial cables (2, 2') may be mounted on the first printed circuit board (31) at positions spaced apart from each other along the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first printed circuit board (31) may be implemented as a printed circuit board (PCB) that is less flexible and cheaper than the flexible circuit board (13, shown in FIG. 1).

[0031] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 8, the first fixing part (32) fixes the coaxial cable (2) to the first printed circuit board (31). By the first fixing part (32), the coaxial cable (2) can be firmly maintained in a state where it is electrically connected to the first board connector (34). The first fixing part (32) can fix the coaxial cable (2) to the first printed circuit board (31) by mounting it on the first printed circuit board (31) and fixing it to the first printed circuit board (31). The coaxial cable (2) can be coupled to the first fixing part (32) by inserting the first connecting member (21) into the first insertion hole formed in the first fixing part (32). When the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention includes a plurality of coaxial cables (2, 2'), a plurality of first insertion holes may be formed in the first fixing part (32).

[0032] The first fixing part (32) can fix the coaxial cable (2) to the first connection area (312, illustrated in FIG. 7) of the first printed circuit board (31). The first connection area (312) is a part of the first printed circuit board (31) covered by the first cover shell (33). Accordingly, the first connection area (312) can be protected from the outside by the first cover shell (33). Thus, by the first cover shell (33), the first fixing part (32) can be firmly maintained in a state where the coaxial cable (2) is fixed to the first printed circuit board (31).

[0033] The first fixing part (32) can be grounded. Accordingly, the first fixing part (32) can implement a shielding function for signals, electromagnetic waves, etc., to the coaxial cable (2). The first fixing part (32) can be grounded by being mounted on a grounding terminal (not shown) formed on the first printed circuit board (31). The first fixing part (32) can be connected to the first shield member (212) of the first connecting member (21). In this case, the first shield member (212) can be connected to the first fixing part (32) by being inserted into the first insertion hole. Accordingly, since the first shield member (212) is grounded through the first fixing part (32) and the first printed circuit board (31), the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented to strengthen the shielding power for the conductive member. The first fixed part (32) may be formed of an electrically conductive material. For example, the first fixed part (32) may be formed of metal.

[0034] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 9, the first cover shell (33) accommodates the first printed circuit board (31) and the first board connector (34). Accordingly, the first cover shell (33) can protect the first printed circuit board (31) and the first board connector (34) from the outside. The first cover shell (33) may also accommodate the first printed circuit board (31), the first board connector (34), and the first fixing part (32).

[0035] The first cover shell (33) may be grounded. Accordingly, the first cover shell (33) can implement a shielding function for signals, electromagnetic waves, etc., to the first substrate connector (34) and the coaxial cable (2). The first cover shell (33) may be grounded by being mounted on a ground terminal (not shown) formed on the first printed circuit board (31). The first cover shell (33) may be formed of a material having electrical conductivity. For example, the first cover shell (33) may be formed of metal. At least one of the first cover shell (33) and the first fixing part (32) may be grounded.

[0036] The first cover shell (33) may include a first connection hole (331).

[0037] The first connection hole (331) may be formed by penetrating one side of the first cover shell (33). The first connection hole (331) may be used as a passage for the first substrate connector (34) to be electrically connected to the first module (110). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can be implemented so that the first substrate connector (34) can be protected from the outside using the first cover shell (33), while the first substrate connector (34) can be electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first connection hole (331). The first printed circuit board (31) may be coupled to the first cover shell (33) so that the first substrate connector (34) is positioned below the first connection hole (331). The first substrate connector (34) can be electrically connected to the first module (110) by connecting to the first counterpart connector (111, shown in FIG. 2) of the first module (110) through the first connection hole (331). The first counterpart connector (111) can be implemented as a substrate connector. In this case, the first substrate connector (34) can be implemented as a plug connector and the first counterpart connector (111) can be implemented as a receptacle connector. The first substrate connector (34) can be implemented as a receptacle connector and the first counterpart connector (111) can be implemented as a plug connector.

[0038] The first cover shell (33) may include a first cover member (332).

[0039] The first cover member (332) is positioned to cover the first connection area (312). The first cover member (332) can protect the portion of the first printed circuit board (31) positioned in the first connection area (312), the coaxial cable (2), and the first fixing part (32) from the outside. The first cover member (332) can be coupled to the first cover body (330) having the first cover shell (33). The first cover body (330) supports the bottom surface (313) of the first printed circuit board (31). The coaxial cable (2), the first fixing part (32), and the first board connector (34) can be coupled to the top surface (314) of the first printed circuit board (31). A first receiving groove (330a) is formed in the first cover body (330) to accommodate the first printed circuit board (31). The first cover body (330) may include a first side wall (330b), a second side wall (330c), and a third side wall (330d). The first side wall (330b) and the second side wall (330c) are spaced apart from each other and positioned facing each other along the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The third side wall (330d) may be positioned between the first side wall (330b) and the second side wall (330c) with respect to the first axial direction (X-axis direction). A first substrate connector (34) may be positioned between the third side wall (330d) and the first fixing part (32) based on the second axis direction (Y-axis direction). The second axis direction (Y-axis direction) and the first axis direction (X-axis direction) are axis directions positioned perpendicular to each other. A side wall portion positioned facing the third side wall (330d) based on the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) may be formed to be open so that the coaxial cable (2) can be inserted by the first receiving groove (330a). When the first cover shell (33) is grounded, the first side wall (330b), the second side wall (330c), and the third side wall (330d) can implement a shielding function for signals, electromagnetic waves, etc., to the first substrate connector (34).That is, the first side wall (330b), the second side wall (330c), and the third side wall (330d) can be implemented as shielding walls for the first substrate connector (34). Accordingly, the first cover shell (33) can prevent electromagnetic waves generated from the first substrate connector (34) from interfering with signals of circuit components located around the electronic device, and can prevent electromagnetic waves generated from circuit components located around the electronic device from interfering with signals transmitted by the first substrate connector (34). Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can contribute to improving EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference) shielding performance and EMC (Electro Magnetic Compatibility) performance by utilizing the first cover shell (33).

[0040] The first cover member (332) may include a first sub-cover member (3321) and a second sub-cover member (3322).

[0041] The first sub-cover member (3321) may be coupled to the first side wall (330b). The first sub-cover member (3321) may be bent based on the portion coupled to the first side wall (330b) and positioned to cover a portion of the first connection area (312).

[0042] The second sub-cover member (3322) may be coupled to the second side wall (330c). The second sub-cover member (3322) may be bent based on the portion coupled to the second side wall (330c) and positioned to cover a portion of the first connection area (312). In this case, the entire first connection area (312) may be covered by the second sub-cover member (3322) and the first sub-cover member (3321).

[0043] In this way, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented such that the first connection area (312) is covered by bending the first sub-cover member (3321) and the second sub-cover member (3322), respectively. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 8, the first printed circuit board (31) in which the coaxial cable (2) and the first substrate connector (34) are combined can be inserted into the receiving groove (330a) before bending is performed on the first sub-cover member (3321) and the second sub-cover member (3322), respectively. Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can improve the ease of the assembly process of assembling the first printed circuit board (31) in which the coaxial cable (2) and the first substrate connector (34) are combined to the first cover shell (33). After the first printed circuit board (31), to which the coaxial cable (2) and the first substrate connector (34) are combined, is inserted into the receiving groove (330a), the first sub-cover member (3321) and the second sub-cover member (3322) can be bent by bending process to cover the first connection area (312). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can be implemented such that the coaxial cable (2) placed in the first connection area (312), the portion of the first printed circuit board (31), and the first fixing part (32) are protected by the first cover member (332) as shown in FIG. 6. Additionally, through bending processing, the first sub-cover member (3321) and the first side wall (330b) can be implemented in a structure where they are perpendicular to each other, and the second sub-cover member (3322) and the second side wall (330c) can be implemented in a structure where they are perpendicular to each other. Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented such that the first sub-cover member (3321) and the second sub-cover member (3322) are arranged so as not to come into direct contact with the coaxial cable (2), thereby preventing external impact from being transmitted to the coaxial cable (2).Meanwhile, the first sub-cover member (3321) and the second sub-cover member (3322) can be fixed to each other through welding or the like after being bent by bending processing. The first sub-cover member (3321), the second sub-cover member (3322), and the first cover body (330) may be formed as a single unit.

[0044] The first cover shell (33) may include a support member (333).

[0045] The support member (333) is coupled to the first cover body (330). The support member (333) protrudes from the first cover body (330) toward the first receiving groove (330a) to support the upper surface (314) of the first printed circuit board (31). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can use the support member (333) to firmly maintain the first printed circuit board (31) coupled to the first cover shell (33), thereby enhancing durability against vibration, shaking, etc.

[0046] The support member (333) may be coupled to the first cover body (330) through a connecting side wall (334). The connecting side wall (334) connects the support member (333) and the first cover body (330). One side of the connecting side wall (334) may be coupled to the first cover body (330), and the other side may be coupled to the support member (333). The connecting side wall (334) may extend from the first cover body (330) toward the first receiving groove (330a). One side of the support member (333) may be coupled to the connecting side wall (334), and the other side may extend toward the upper surface (314) of the first printed circuit board (31). The other side of the support member (333) may support the upper surface (314) of the first printed circuit board (31). The support member (333), the connecting side wall (334), and the first cover body (330) may be formed integrally. The support member (333) may be formed as a plate shape standing vertically, and the connecting side wall (334) may be formed as a plate shape lying horizontally. The support member (333), the connecting side wall (334), and the first cover body (330) may be implemented to support the upper surface (314) of the first printed circuit board (31) through bending processing.

[0047] The first cover shell (33) may include a plurality of support members (333). The support members (333) may protrude from different side walls (330b, 330c, 330d) of the first cover body (330) to support the upper surface (314) of the first printed circuit board (31). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can support the first printed circuit board (31) more firmly by using the support members (333), thereby further enhancing durability against vibration, shaking, etc. When a plurality of support members (333) are provided, the first cover shell (33) may include a plurality of connecting side walls (334). The above support members (333) can be connected to at least two of the first side wall (330b), the second side wall (330c), and the third side wall (330d) through the connecting side walls (334).

[0048] When the first cover shell (33) is grounded, the side walls of the support member (333) and the first cover body (330) can implement a shielding function for signals, electromagnetic waves, etc., to the first substrate connector (34). In this case, the side walls of the support member (333) and the first cover body (330) can be implemented as a double shielding wall (335) for the first substrate connector (34). Accordingly, the first cover shell (33) can strengthen the shielding function for the first substrate connector (34) by using the double shielding wall (335). Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can contribute to further improving EMI shielding performance and EMC performance by using the double shielding wall (335).

[0049] For example, the support member (333) may include a first support member (333a), a second support member (333b), and a third support member (333c). The connecting side wall (334) may include a first connecting side wall (334a), a second connecting side wall (334b), and a third connecting side wall (334c).

[0050] The first support member (333a) can be coupled to the first side wall (330b) through the first connecting side wall (334a). The first connecting side wall (334a) can be coupled to the first side wall (333b). The first support member (333a) can be coupled to the first connecting side wall (334a). The first support member (333a), the first connecting side wall (334a), and the first side wall (330b) can be implemented as a first double shielding wall (335a) for the first substrate connector (34). In this case, the first support member (333a), the first connecting side wall (334a), and the first side wall (330b) can be grounded through the first cover body (330).

[0051] The second support member (333b) may be coupled to the second side wall (330c) through the second connecting side wall (334b). The second connecting side wall (334b) may be coupled to the second side wall (333c). The second support member (333b) may be coupled to the second connecting side wall (334b). The second support member (333b), the second connecting side wall (334b), and the second side wall (330c) may be implemented as a second double shielding wall (335b) for the first substrate connector (34). In this case, the second support member (333b), the second connecting side wall (334b), and the second side wall (330c) may be grounded through the first cover body (330).

[0052] The third support member (333c) can be coupled to the third side wall (330d) through the third connecting side wall (334c). The third connecting side wall (334c) can be coupled to the third side wall (333d). The third support member (333c) can be coupled to the third connecting side wall (334c). The third support member (333c), the third connecting side wall (334c), and the third side wall (330d) can be implemented as a third double shielding wall (335c) for the first substrate connector (34). In this case, the third support member (333c), the third connecting side wall (334c), and the third side wall (330d) can be grounded through the first cover body (330).

[0053] In this way, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented to enhance the shielding function for the first substrate connector (34) by utilizing the first double shielding wall (335a), the second double shielding wall (335b), and the third double shielding wall (335c). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can contribute to further improving the EMI shielding performance and EMC performance for the first substrate connector (34).

[0054] Meanwhile, if the first cover shell (33) includes both the first cover member (332) and the support member (333), the first sub-cover member (3321) and the first support member (333a) may be coupled to the first side wall (330b) at a spaced-apart position. The second sub-cover member (3322) and the second support member (333b) may be coupled to the second side wall (330c) at a spaced-apart position.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 12, the first substrate connector (34) is intended to be electrically connected to the first module (110). The first substrate connector (34) is mounted on the first printed circuit board (31) so that it can be electrically connected to the coaxial cable (2) mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). Accordingly, the first substrate connector (34) can electrically connect the coaxial cable (2) and the first module (110). The first substrate connector (34) can be positioned below the first connection hole (331). Accordingly, the first substrate connector (34) can be electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first connection hole (331) even while positioned inside the first cover shell (33). In this case, the first substrate connector (34) can be positioned between the third side wall (330d) and the first connection area (312) based on the second axis direction (Y-axis direction).

[0056] The first substrate connector (34) may be implemented as an RF connector for transmitting RF (Radio Frequency) signals. To this end, the first substrate connector (34) may include a plurality of RF contacts (341), an insulating part (342), and a grounding housing (343).

[0057] The above RF contacts (341) are for transmitting RF (Radio Frequency) signals. The above RF contacts (341) can transmit ultra-high frequency RF signals. The above RF contacts (341) can be supported on the insulating part (342). The above RF contacts (341) can be coupled to the insulating part (342) through an assembly process. The above RF contacts (341) may also be integrally molded with the insulating part (342) through injection molding.

[0058] The RF contacts (341) may be spaced apart from each other. The RF contacts (341) may be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (31) by being mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). The RF contacts (341) may be electrically connected to the first module (110) having the first counterpart connector (111) by being connected to the RF contacts of the first counterpart connector (111). Accordingly, the first module (110) may be electrically connected to the second module (120) through the first board connector (34) and the coaxial cable (2).

[0059] Among the RF contacts (341), the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) among the RF contacts (341) may be spaced apart from each other along the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) may be supported on the insulating part (342) at a position spaced apart from each other along the first axial direction (X-axis direction). The first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) may be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (31) by being mounted on the first printed circuit board (31), respectively. The first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) may each be formed of an electrically conductive material. For example, the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) may be formed of metal. The first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) may each be connected to any one of the RF contacts of the first counterpart connector (111).

[0060] The insulating part (342) supports the RF contacts (341). The insulating part (342) may be formed of an insulating material. The insulating part (342) may be coupled to the grounding housing (343) while supporting the RF contacts (341).

[0061] The grounding housing (343) is combined with the insulating part (342). The grounding housing (343) can be grounded by being mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). Accordingly, the grounding housing (343) can implement a shielding function for signals, electromagnetic waves, etc., to the RF contacts (341). In this case, the grounding housing (343) can prevent electromagnetic waves generated from the RF contacts (341) from interfering with the signals of circuit components located around the electronic device, and can prevent electromagnetic waves generated from circuit components located around the electronic device from interfering with the RF signals transmitted by the RF contacts (341). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can contribute to improving EMI shielding performance and EMC performance by utilizing the grounding housing (343). The grounding housing (343) may be formed of an electrically conductive material. For example, the grounding housing (343) may be formed of metal.

[0062] The grounding housing (343) may be positioned to surround the side of the inner space (343a). A part of the insulating part (342) may be located in the inner space (343a). The first counterpart connector (111) may be inserted into the inner space (343a). The first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) may be located in the inner space (343a). Accordingly, the grounding housing (343) can achieve complete shielding by reinforcing the shielding function for the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) by implementing a shielding wall for the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b). In this case, if the first cover shell (33) is grounded and implemented to include the double shielding wall (335), the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can implement a triple shielding wall for the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) using the double shielding wall (335) and the grounding housing (343). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can further enhance the shielding function for the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b).

[0063] The grounding housing (343) may be positioned to surround all sides based on the inner space (343a). The inner space (343a) may be positioned inside the grounding housing (343). If the grounding housing (343) is formed in the shape of a square ring overall, the inner space (343a) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular body. In this case, the grounding housing (343) may be positioned to surround four sides based on the inner space (343a).

[0064] The grounding housing (343) can be formed integrally without seams. The grounding housing (343) can be formed integrally without seams by a metal injection molding method such as metal die casting or MIM (Metal Injection Molding). The grounding housing (343) can also be formed integrally without seams by CNC (Computer Numerical Control) processing, MCT (Machining Center Tool) processing, etc.

[0065] The first substrate connector (34) may include a first ground contact (344) and a second ground contact (345).

[0066] The first ground contact (344) is coupled to the insulating part (342). The first ground contact (344) can be grounded by being mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). The first ground contact (344) can be coupled to the insulating part (342) through an assembly process. The first ground contact (344) may also be integrally molded with the insulating part (342) through injection molding. The first ground contact (344) can provide a shielding function for the first RF contact (341a) together with the ground housing (343). The first ground contact (344) can be formed from a material having electrical conductivity. For example, the first ground contact (344) can be formed from metal. When the first counterpart connector (111) is inserted into the inner space (343a), the first ground contact (344) can be connected to the ground contact of the first counterpart connector (111). The first ground contact (344) may include a plurality of ground contacts. The ground contacts of the first ground contacts (344) can provide a shielding function for the first RF contact (341a) at a spaced-apart location. The space where the ground contacts of the first ground contacts (344) are spaced apart from each other can be shielded by being connected to the ground contact of the first counterpart connector (111).

[0067] The first grounding contact (344) can implement a first grounding loop (344a, illustrated in FIG. 12) for the first RF contact (341a) together with the grounding housing (343). The first grounding loop (344a) can be implemented to surround the outside of the first RF contact (341a), thereby realizing complete shielding of the first RF contact (341a). In this case, the first grounding contact (344) can be connected to the grounding housing (343) to implement the first grounding loop (344a). When the first grounding contact (344) and the grounding housing (343) are spaced apart from each other, the first grounding contact (344) and the grounding housing (343) can be connected to the grounding contact and grounding housing of the first counterpart connector (111) to implement the first grounding loop (344a).

[0068] The second ground contact (345) is coupled to the insulating part (342). The second ground contact (345) can be grounded by being mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). The second ground contact (345) can be coupled to the insulating part (342) through an assembly process. The second ground contact (345) may also be integrally molded with the insulating part (342) through injection molding. The second ground contact (345) can provide a shielding function for the second RF contact (341b) together with the ground housing (343). The second ground contact (345) can be formed from a material having electrical conductivity. For example, the second ground contact (345) can be formed from metal. When the first counterpart connector (111) is inserted into the inner space (343a), the second ground contact (345) can be connected to the ground contact of the first counterpart connector (111). The second ground contact (345) may include a plurality of ground contacts. The ground contacts of the second ground contacts (345) can provide a shielding function for the second RF contact (341b) at a spaced-apart location. The space where the ground contacts of the second ground contacts (345) are spaced apart from each other can be shielded by being connected to the ground contact of the first counterpart connector (111).

[0069] The second grounding contact (345) can implement a second grounding loop (345a, illustrated in FIG. 12) for the second RF contact (341b) together with the grounding housing (343). The second grounding loop (345a) can be implemented to surround the outside of the second RF contact (341b), thereby realizing complete shielding of the second RF contact (341b). In this case, the second grounding contact (345) can be connected to the grounding housing (343) to implement the second grounding loop (345a). When the second grounding contact (345) and the grounding housing (343) are spaced apart from each other, the second grounding contact (345) and the grounding housing (343) are connected to the grounding contact and grounding housing of the first counterpart connector (111), thereby enabling the second grounding loop (345a) to be implemented.

[0070] The first substrate connector (34) may include a plurality of transmission contacts (346).

[0071] The transmission contacts (346) are coupled to the insulating part (342). The transmission contacts (346) can perform the function of transmitting signals, data, power, etc. The transmission contacts (346) can be coupled to the insulating part (342) through an assembly process. The transmission contacts (346) may also be integrally molded with the insulating part (342) through injection molding. The transmission contacts (346) can be positioned between the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) with respect to the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Accordingly, the transmission contacts (346) may be disposed in a space separated from the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b) to reduce RF signal interference between the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b). Thus, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can not only reduce RF signal interference by increasing the distance between the first RF contact (341a) and the second RF contact (341b), but also improve the space utilization of the insulation part (342) by disposing of the transmission contacts (346) in the spaced-out area. When the first grounding contact (344) and the second grounding contact (345) are provided, the transmission contacts (346) may be positioned between the first grounding contact (344) and the second grounding contact (345) with respect to the first axis direction (X-axis direction).

[0072] The transmission contacts (346) may be spaced apart from each other. The transmission contacts (346) may be electrically connected to the first printed circuit board (31) by being mounted on the first printed circuit board (31). The transmission contacts (346) may be formed of an electrically conductive material. For example, the transmission contacts (346) may be formed of metal. The transmission contacts (346) may be electrically connected to the first module (110) on which the first counterpart connector (111) is mounted by being connected to the transmission contacts of the first counterpart connector (111). Accordingly, the first printed circuit board (31) and the first module (110) may be electrically connected.

[0073] As described above, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention can be implemented such that one side of the coaxial cable (2) is electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first substrate connector (34), and the other side of the coaxial cable (2) is directly electrically connected to the second module (120).

[0074] In contrast, the hybrid connector (1) according to a modified embodiment of the present invention may be implemented such that both sides of the coaxial cable (2) are electrically connected to the first module (110) and the second module (120), respectively, through a substrate connector. To this end, the hybrid connector (1) according to a modified embodiment of the present invention may include a second connection part (4, illustrated in FIG. 13).

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, one end of the coaxial cable (2) may be electrically connected to the first module (110) through the first connection part (3), and the other end may be electrically connected to the second module (120) through the second connection part (4). In this case, the second connection member (22) of the coaxial cable (2) may be mounted on the second printed circuit board (41) of the second connection part (4), thereby being electrically connected to the second module (120) through the second board connector (44) of the second connection part (4).

[0076] Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to a modified embodiment of the present invention is implemented to electrically connect the first module (110) and the second module (120), which are spaced apart from each other, using the coaxial cable (2), the first substrate connector (34) of the first connecting part (3), and the second substrate connector (44) of the second connecting part (4). Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to a modified embodiment of the present invention can implement electrical connection through the first substrate connector (34) and the second substrate connector (44) using the coaxial cable (2), which is relatively cheaper than the flexible circuit board (13, shown in FIG. 1), not only when the first module (110) and the second module (120) are spaced apart from each other, but also when the first module (110) and the second module (120) are arranged to face different directions. Accordingly, the hybrid connector (1) according to the modified embodiment of the present invention can reduce the cost of electrically connecting the first module (110) and the second module (120) when compared to a comparative example using a flexible circuit board (13, shown in FIG. 1). In addition, the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention is implemented as a hybrid connection structure that electrically connects the first module (110) and the second module (120) through the first board connector (34) and the second board connector (44) while using the coaxial cable (2). Therefore, the hybrid connector (1) according to the modified embodiment of the present invention can be implemented to be more suitable for transmitting multiple signals when compared to a comparative example using only the coaxial cable (2).

[0077] In the hybrid connector (1) according to a modified embodiment of the present invention, the second connecting member (22) is implemented to be approximately identical to the first connecting member (21), except that it is electrically connected to the second printed circuit board (41) in contrast to the first connecting member (21) in the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention described above, so a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 15, the second connecting part (4) may include the second printed circuit board (41), the second fixing part (42), the second cover shell (43), and the second board connector (44).

[0079] The second printed circuit board (41) is on which the second board connector (44) is mounted. Since the second printed circuit board (41) is implemented approximately identically to the first printed circuit board (31) in the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention described above, except that it electrically connects the first module (110) and the second module (120) through the second connecting member (22) and the second ground contact (345) in comparison to the first printed circuit board (31), a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0080] The second fixing part (42) is for fixing the coaxial cable (2) to the second printed circuit board (41). Since the second fixing part (42) is implemented approximately identically to the first fixing part (32) in the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention described above, except that it fixes the second connecting member (22) to the second printed circuit board (41) in contrast to the first fixing part (32), a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0081] The second cover shell (43) accommodates the second printed circuit board (41) and the second board connector (44). A second connection hole (431) may be formed in the second cover shell (43). The second connection hole (431) may be formed by penetrating one side of the second cover shell (43). The second connection hole (431) may be used as a passage for the second board connector (44) to be electrically connected to the second module (120). The second board connector (44) may be electrically connected to the second module (120) by connecting to the second counterpart connector (122, shown in FIG. 13) of the second module (120) through the second connection hole (431). The second counterpart connector (122) may be implemented as a substrate connector. In this case, the second substrate connector (44) may be implemented as a plug connector, and the second counterpart connector (122) may be implemented as a receptacle connector. The second substrate connector (44) may be implemented as a receptacle connector, and the second counterpart connector (122) may be implemented as a plug connector. Since the second cover shell (43) is implemented approximately identically to the first cover shell (33) in the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention described above, except for accommodating the second printed circuit board (41) and the second substrate connector (44) in contrast to the first cover shell (33), a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0082] The second substrate connector (44) is intended to be electrically connected to the second module (120). Since the second substrate connector (44) is implemented approximately identically to the first substrate connector (34) in the hybrid connector (1) according to the present invention described above, except that it is mounted on the second printed circuit board (41) and electrically connected to the second module (120) in contrast to the first substrate connector (34), a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0083] It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the invention described above is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments and attached drawings, and that various substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0084] 1 : Hybrid connector 2 : Coaxial cable 3 : 1st connecting part 4 : 2nd connecting part 110 : Module 1 120 : Module 2 21 : First connecting member 22 : Second connecting member 23 : Cable member 31 : First printed circuit board 32: 1st fixing part 33: 1st cover shell 34 : 1st PCB connector 41 : 2nd printed circuit board 42: Second fixing part 43: Second cover shell 44 : Second board connector

Claims

Claim 1 A first substrate connector for electrically connecting to a first module; a first printed circuit board on which the first substrate connector is mounted; a coaxial cable for electrically connecting to a second module spaced apart from the first module; a first fixing part for fixing the coaxial cable mounted on the first printed circuit board and electrically connected to the first substrate connector to the first printed circuit board; and a first cover shell for accommodating the first substrate connector and the first printed circuit board, wherein the first cover shell comprises a first cover body supporting the bottom surface of the first printed circuit board; and a first receiving groove formed in the first cover body for accommodating the first printed circuit board. A hybrid connector characterized by comprising a plurality of support members that are coupled to the first cover body and protrude toward the first receiving groove to support the upper surface of the first printed circuit board, wherein the support members protrude from different side walls of the first cover body and contact and support the upper surface of different parts of the first printed circuit board, and the side walls of the support members and the first cover body are implemented as double shielding walls for the first board connector, and the first board connector is electrically connected to the first module through a first connection hole formed in the first cover shell, and the first fixing part is grounded to provide shielding power for the coaxial cable. Claim 2 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, wherein the coaxial cable comprises: a first connecting member mounted on the first printed circuit board so as to be electrically connected to the first module through the first substrate connector; a second connecting member for being directly electrically connected to the second module; and a cable member coupled to each of the first connecting member and the second connecting member. Claim 3 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, wherein the coaxial cable comprises: a first connecting member mounted on a first printed circuit board so as to be electrically connected to a first module through a first substrate connector; a second connecting member mounted on a second printed circuit board on which a second substrate connector is mounted so as to be electrically connected to a second module through a second substrate connector; and a cable member coupled to each of the first connecting member and the second connecting member. Claim 4 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, comprising: a second board connector for electrically connecting to the second module; a second printed circuit board on which the second board connector is mounted; a second fixing part on which one side fixes the other side of a coaxial cable mounted on the first printed circuit board to the second printed circuit board; and a second cover shell for accommodating the second printed circuit board on which the second board connector is mounted. Claim 5 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, wherein the first substrate connector comprises a plurality of RF contacts for transmitting an RF (Radio Frequency) signal; an insulating part supporting the RF contacts; and a grounding housing to which the insulating part is coupled. Claim 6 A hybrid connector according to claim 5, wherein the first substrate connector comprises a first ground contact and a second ground contact coupled to the insulating portion, and the first ground contact and the second ground contact shield the space between the RF contacts. Claim 7 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, characterized in that the first printed circuit board has a first wiring pattern formed thereon to electrically connect the first board connector and the coaxial cable. Claim 8 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, characterized in that the first cover shell is grounded to provide shielding power to the first substrate connector. Claim 9 A hybrid connector according to claim 1, wherein the first fixing part fixes the coaxial cable to a first connection area of ​​the first printed circuit board, and the first cover shell includes a first cover member arranged to cover the first connection area. Claim 10 A hybrid connector according to claim 9, wherein the first cover shell comprises a first cover body to which the first cover member is coupled, and the first cover member comprises a first sub-cover member coupled to a first side wall of the first cover body and a second sub-cover member coupled to a second side wall of the first cover body, wherein the first sub-cover member is bent based on the portion coupled to the first side wall and arranged to cover a portion of the first connection area, and the second sub-cover member is bent based on the portion coupled to the second side wall and arranged to cover a portion of the first connection area. Claim 11 delete Claim 12 delete Claim 13 delete Claim 14 In claim 1, the first cover shell includes a connecting side wall connecting the support member and the first cover body, and the first cover body includes a first side wall and a second side wall arranged facing each other and spaced apart along a first axial direction, and a third side wall arranged between the first side wall and the second side wall with respect to the first axial direction, and the connecting side wall includes a first connecting side wall coupled to the first side wall, a second connecting side wall coupled to the second side wall, and a third connecting side wall coupled to the third side wall, and the support member includes a first support member coupled to the first side wall through the first connecting side wall, a second support member coupled to the second side wall through the second connecting side wall, and a third support member coupled to the third side wall through the third connecting side wall, and the first support member, the first connecting side wall, and the first side wall are grounded through the first cover body so as to the A hybrid connector characterized by being implemented as a first double shielding wall for a first substrate connector, wherein the second support member, the second connecting side wall, and the second side wall are grounded through the first cover body to be implemented as a second double shielding wall for the first substrate connector, and wherein the third support member, the third connecting side wall, and the third side wall are grounded through the first cover body to be implemented as a third double shielding wall for the first substrate connector.

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