Bridge Connector for Circuit Boards with Interference Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for coupling circuit boards lack sufficient mechanical support and require multiple steps, failing to effectively both electrically and mechanically connect multiple boards while maintaining their spatial relationship.
Innovation Solution
A bridge connector with a housing and bridge contacts that form an interference fit with through-holes in the circuit boards, providing a simple and efficient method to mechanically and electrically couple two or more circuit boards, ensuring they remain co-planar and securely aligned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conductive bands are used to electrically couple circuit boards, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but mechanical support is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines electrical connection and mechanical support functions into a single integrated connector. The connector includes conductive elements for electrical coupling and rigid structural components (housing, support ribs, flanges) for mechanical support, merging two separate functions into one unified component that simultaneously achieves both electrical connectivity and mechanical strength.
2Strength
If soldering or adhesives are used to couple circuit boards, then mechanical coupling is improved, but the process requires multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional components: a housing for structural support, conductive elements for electrical connection, and mounting features (flanges, support ribs) for mechanical attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while being assembled as a single integrated unit, reducing the overall number of steps required compared to separate soldering and adhesive processes.
3Reliability
If multiple methods are used to connect circuit boards, then both electrical and mechanical coupling are achieved, but the process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a universal multi-functional component that simultaneously provides electrical connection, mechanical support, and structural alignment. The single connector unit performs multiple functions that would otherwise require separate components and processes, including conductive paths for electricity, rigid housing for mechanical strength, and integrated mounting features for positioning, thereby simplifying the overall connection process while maintaining coupling effectiveness.
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
The bridge connector effectively couples circuit boards with a snap-fit mechanism, providing strong mechanical support and electrical connectivity in fewer steps than traditional methods, suitable for applications like touchscreen systems.
Implementation Method 1
Each tail portion is configured to form an interference fit with a corresponding through-hole in order to couple the first and second circuit boards
Data Source
AI summary
A bridge connector that is configured to electrically and mechanically couple first and second circuit boards is provided. Each circuit board includes a board surface having through-holes. The connector includes a housing having a coupling side configured to interface with the board surfaces when the housing is coupled to the first and second circuit boards. The connector also includes a plurality of bridge contacts that are held within the housing. Each contact includes tail portions that project from the coupling side. Each tail portion is configured to form an interference fit with a corresponding through-hole in order to couple the first and second circuit boards. The tail portions are arranged to hold the first and second circuit boards along the coupling side.