Cable Connector Assembly Internal Metallic Shield EMI
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connector assemblies lack a reliable and easy-to-manufacture design incorporating an internal metallic shield, which is essential for effective Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielding and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector assembly featuring a printed circuit board (PCB) with an inner metal member, insulating member, metallic shield, front and rear metal casings, and an outer over-mold, providing a reversible USB Type C interface with enhanced EMI shielding and mechanical retention through spring arms and conductive pads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an internal metallic shield is incorporated into the cable connector assembly, then EMI shielding effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic shield is nested within the connector housing, with the insulating member positioned inside the shield and the PCB positioned inside the insulating member. This nested arrangement provides comprehensive EMI shielding while maintaining a compact overall structure, as each component is contained within the previous one, minimizing external dimensions despite the added shielding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: the metallic shield for EMI protection, the insulating member for electrical isolation, and the PCB for signal transmission. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the manufacturing process, as each segment can be produced and positioned independently.
2Strength
If multiple components (inner metal member, insulating member, metallic shield, metal casings) are assembled, then structural integrity and EMI shielding are improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating member is pre-formed with positioning features such as recesses and protrusions that align with corresponding features on the PCB and metallic shield. This preliminary preparation of positioning features allows for rapid assembly without requiring complex alignment procedures during the assembly process, maintaining ease of manufacture while ensuring structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring arms are designed to automatically engage with the metallic shield and cable assembly when the connector is put together, providing self-retention and self-alignment. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional fastening steps or complex locking mechanisms, simplifying the assembly process while ensuring secure mechanical retention and structural integrity.
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 solution ensures reliable EMI shielding, easy manufacturing, and reversible mating capabilities, enhancing the structural integrity and connectivity of the cable connector assembly while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a metallic shield disposed around the insulating member
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector assembly includes: a printed circuit board (PCB) having a front end, a rear end, and an intermediate portion; a cable electrically connected to the rear end of the PCB; an inner metal member disposed about the intermediate portion of the PCB; an insulating member holding the inner metal member in position relative to the PCB; a metallic shield disposed around the insulating member; a front metal casing engaging the metallic shield; a rear metal casing surrounding a front of the cable and engaging the front metal casing; and an outer over-mold surrounding the front and rear metal casings.