Cable Connector LED Light Pipe Retention via Metal Shell Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connector assemblies lack a stable retention mechanism for light emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on printed circuit boards, which affects the assembly's overall stability and performance.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector assembly design that includes a metal shell pressing a light pipe against the printed circuit board, with the light pipe having step portions to secure it firmly, and an outer case that exposes a light-transmissive region for improved LED illumination and structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the LED is mounted on the PCB without additional retention structures, then the assembly is simple, but the LED is not positively retained in position affecting stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light pipe as an intermediary component between the LED and the outer case. The light pipe serves multiple functions: it guides light from the LED, provides structural support, and enables positive retention of the LED through engagement features (protrusion and recess) that connect the LED assembly to the outer case, thereby resolving the stability issue without significantly increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the light-guiding function and the retention function into a single integrated light pipe structure. The light pipe combines optical functionality (guiding light from LED to indicator) with mechanical retention functionality (engaging with the outer case to secure LED position), eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms
2Illumination intensity
If the light pipe is used to guide LED light, then illumination is improved, but the light pipe is not securely mounted affecting structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe is nested within the outer case structure, with the outer case providing a housing that contains and secures the light pipe. The light pipe protrusion fits into a corresponding recess in the outer case, creating a nested arrangement where the outer case acts as the outer shell and the light pipe is positioned within it, providing secure mounting while maintaining light guidance function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the light pipe mounting by creating a protrusion that extends from the light pipe body into a recess in the outer case. This dimensional extension beyond the basic light-guiding structure provides the mechanical engagement needed for secure mounting while preserving the optical function
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
Enhances the stability and illumination of the LED structure within the cable connector assembly by ensuring the light pipe is securely mounted, improving the assembly's structural integrity and light transmission efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a light pipe to pass the light emitted by the light emitting element therethrough
Implementation Method 2
the metal shell bears against the second surface to press the light pipe against the PCB
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector assembly includes a cable and an electrical connector electrically connected with the cable, the electrical connector including a mating member, a printed circuit board (PCB) electrically connected with the mating member, a light emitting element mounted on the PCB, a light pipe to pass the light emitted by the light emitting element therethrough, a metal shell enclosing the PCB, and an outer case covering the metal shell, the light pipe mounted to the PCB, wherein the light pipe defines a first step portion and a second step portion on the bottom side of the first step portion, the first step portion defines a first surface exposing to a light-transmissive region of the outer case, the second step portion defines a second surface, and the metal shell bears against the second surface to press the light pipe against the PCB.