Adjustable Circuit Board Assembly with Matrix Connector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing circuit board assemblies face challenges in design flexibility and manufacturing efficiency, as changes to dimensions often require new components and additional resources, making it difficult to adjust the assembly without significant rework.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable circuit board assembly is designed with a header connected to the board via a connection matrix and matrix connector, allowing for multiple connection configurations through solder pads and matrix connectors, enabling adjustments in terminal positions without altering the manufacturing process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the circuit board assembly is designed with fixed dimensions and components, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates as design changes require new components and manufacturing resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign flexibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit board assembly incorporates adjustable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration of terminal positions and header connections. The connection matrix and matrix connector enable the header to be positioned at multiple locations without requiring physical changes to the circuit board itself, transforming a static design into a dynamically adaptable system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection matrix serves multiple functions: it provides solder pads for electrical connections, defines terminal positions, and enables header placement at various locations. This multi-functional element allows the same circuit board design to serve multiple configuration needs, eliminating the requirement for separate designs for each terminal arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the header position is fixed relative to the circuit board, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates as terminal positions cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal positioning flexibilityVSAvoidassembly simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into distinct components: the connection matrix with multiple solder pad locations and the matrix connector that interfaces with the header. This segmentation allows the header to connect to different segments (solder pads) of the connection matrix, enabling position adjustment while keeping the overall assembly process simple and standardized.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If design changes are implemented through new manufacturing components, then adaptability improves, but loss of time and resources increases due to additional design review and manufacturing setup

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign modification capabilityVSAvoiddesign change time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection matrix is pre-configured with multiple potential connection points and solder pad locations during the initial design phase. This preliminary preparation of multiple connection options eliminates the need for subsequent design changes, tooling modifications, or manufacturing setup changes when terminal positions need to be adjusted, saving significant time and resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connection matrices and matrix connectors are used, then adaptability improves for reconfigurable assemblies, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration capabilityVSAvoidconnection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection matrix and matrix connector are designed as integrated components that work together as a unified system. The matrix connector is specifically configured to mate with the connection matrix, creating a standardized interface that simplifies the overall connection system despite enabling multiple configuration options. This merging reduces the complexity that would arise from using separate, incompatible connection elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution allows for flexible positioning of headers and terminals on the circuit board, reducing the need for new components and resources, and enabling efficient adjustments to meet changing design requirements while maintaining assembly quality.

Implementation Method 1

Connecting the terminal header with the circuit board may include soldering the matrix connector to the connection matrix at a first temperature.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSoldering: Soldering

Implementation Method 2

Connecting the plurality of terminals to the circuit board may include soldering the plurality of terminals to the circuit board at a second temperature. The second temperature may be lower than the first temperature.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSoldering: Soldering

Data Source

PatentUS11081820B2Adjustable circuit board assembly
Publication Date: 2021.08.03 LEAR CORP
  • US11081820B2 patent drawing
  • US11081820B2 patent drawing
  • US11081820B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure includes an adjustable circuit board assembly including a circuit board, a header connected to the circuit board, and a matrix connector. The header may be configured for connection with the circuit board via a connection matrix and the matrix connector. A method of manufacturing a circuit board assembly may include providing a circuit board, providing a terminal header having a plurality of terminals, providing a connection matrix to at least one of the circuit board and the terminal header, providing a matrix connector, connecting the terminal header with the circuit board via the matrix connector and the connection matrix, and connecting the plurality of terminals to the circuit board.