Cable Assembly Positioning Structure for PCB Grounding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PCI Express x16 cable assemblies have high manufacturing costs and complex assembly processes due to the use of multiple components and complex positioning structures for internal printed circuit boards (PCBs).
Innovation Solution
A cable assembly design featuring a housing with protruding portions and steps to simplify the positioning of PCBs, reducing the number of components and enhancing assembly efficiency, while incorporating a metallic piece for reduced crosstalk and a latching mechanism for secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spacer with grounding piece is used to position PCBs, then grounding function is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the positioning function and grounding function into a single integrated structure. The housing includes positioning protrusions that directly provide both mechanical positioning for the PCBs and electrical grounding through conductive elements, eliminating the need for a separate spacer component with grounding piece.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both the structural enclosure and the positioning mechanism. The positioning protrusions integrated into the housing perform dual functions of mechanical support and electrical grounding, reducing the overall component count and assembly complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple components are used for PCB positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into fewer components. The housing incorporates positioning protrusions that provide precise positioning without requiring separate positioning components, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure itself provides the positioning function through its integrated protrusions, eliminating the need for additional positioning components. This self-service approach reduces component count and manufacturing complexity while maintaining precise PCB positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable assembly comprises a housing including an upper cover and a lower cover assembled with each other and a pair of first and second printed circuit boards (PCBs) received in the housing and sandwiched between the upper and lower cover. The upper cover defines a number of protruding portions formed therein. Each of the protruding portion defines two steps thereon. The first and second PCBs are spaced apart from each other along a vertical direction by the two steps of each of the protruding portions. The first and second PCBs respectively define a plurality of first and second openings cooperating with corresponding protruding portions.