Cable Connector Shield Structure for Simplified PCB Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cable connectors require a receptacle connector and a plug connector on printed circuit boards, leading to a complex mating structure, and there is a need for a simpler design that effectively connects differential-pair signal contacts and grounding contacts with metallic shields.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector design featuring a case with a contact module comprising upper and lower parts, where differential-pair signal contacts and grounding contacts are alternately arranged, with a metallic upper shield contacting grounding contacts and braiding layers, and a deflectable latch for oblique mating with the printed circuit board.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a traditional receptacle connector and plug connector structure is used, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the mating structure becomes complex and difficult to simplify
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of the receptacle connector and plug connector into a single integrated cable connector assembly. The upper part includes both signal contacts and grounding contacts within one connector body, eliminating the need for separate receptacle and plug components while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the integrated contact arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable connector is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously provides signal transmission through differential-pair signal contacts and grounding through grounding contacts, all within a single connector structure. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized connectors for different functions.
2Reliability
If multiple separate contacts and shielding components are used, then electrical connectivity and shielding are achieved, but the number of components and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The metallic shield is integrated with the upper insulator as a unified component, with spring fingers directly formed as part of the shield structure. This merging of the shield and contact elements into a single integrated component reduces the total number of parts while ensuring reliable electrical connectivity and shielding effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic shield incorporates spring fingers with specific geometric parameters that enable simultaneous electrical contact and mechanical retention. By optimizing the spring finger dimensions and elasticity, the design achieves reliable electrical connectivity without requiring additional separate contact components.
3Reliability
If spring fingers are added to contact grounding contacts and braiding layers, then electrical contact reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring fingers are integrally formed with the metallic shield through a single molding process, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly steps for the spring contact elements. This integration maintains reliable electrical contact while simplifying manufacturing by reducing the number of discrete components and assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring finger geometry is optimized with specific dimensional parameters that enable reliable contact through elastic deformation. By carefully controlling the spring finger thickness, length, and curvature during molding, the design achieves dependable electrical contact without requiring complex post-manufacturing adjustments or assembly procedures.
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 design simplifies the mating process by using a metallic shield with spring fingers to contact grounding contacts and braiding layers, separating differential-pair signal contacts, and a deflectable latch for secure oblique connection, enhancing electrical connectivity and mechanical stability.
Implementation Method 1
a metallic upper shield secured to the upper insulator, the metallic upper shield including a plurality of front spring fingers respectively contacting corresponding grounding contacts of the upper contacts and a plurality of rear spring fingers respectively contacting the braiding layers of corresponding wires
Implementation Method 2
a metallic upper shield secured to the upper insulator, the metallic upper shield including a plurality of front spring fingers respectively contacting corresponding grounding contacts of the upper contacts
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector includes a contact module enclosed within a case. The contact module includes an upper part and a lower part stacked with each other. The upper part includes an upper insulator and plural upper contacts and a metallic upper shield attached upon the upper insulator. The wires include inner conductors connected to differential-pair signal contacts of the plural upper contacts. The upper shield defines a plurality of front spring fingers respectively connected to the corresponding grounding contacts and a plurality of rear spring fingers respectively connected to the braiding layers of the corresponding wires.