Cable Retention Subsystem for Flexible Flat Cable Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems, particularly those using flexible flat cables (FFCs) with zero insertion force (ZIF) or low insertion force (LIF) connectors, face challenges in correct orientation and secure connection, leading to potential damage, misalignment, and unintended disconnection during shipment, which increases service costs.
Innovation Solution
A cable retention subsystem comprising a frame member with alignment and retention features that aligns and secures the cable connector with the board connector, resisting movement perpendicular to the board and providing audible feedback upon connection, thus ensuring accurate and stable electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If ZIF or LIF connectors are used for FFCs, then flexibility and reduced stiffness are improved, but connector orientation and alignment become difficult to discern, leading to misalignment and shorted contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable retention subsystem as an intermediary component between the FFC connector and the board connector. This subsystem includes alignment features that guide the flexible cable connector into proper alignment with the board connector, eliminating the need for the connector itself to provide alignment cues. The retention subsystem acts as a mediator that enables precise alignment while preserving the flexibility benefits of ZIF/LIF connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention separates the alignment and retention functions from the connector itself by introducing a distinct cable retention subsystem. This segmentation allows the connector to maintain its flexible ZIF/LIF design while the separate retention subsystem provides the necessary alignment and securing functions, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and alignment precision.
2Strength
If ZIF or LIF connections are used, then cable flexibility is improved, but cables can be inadvertently disconnected during shipment, increasing service costs
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention subsystem performs preliminary action by securing the flexible cable connector to the board connector before the product enters the shipment phase. The retention features engage the connector in advance, preventing inadvertent disconnection during transport while maintaining the flexible ZIF/LIF connection benefits during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention subsystem applies preliminary anti-action by providing counter-forces that prevent the flexible cable from being inadvertently disconnected during shipment. The retention features are designed to resist disconnection forces while allowing intentional connection and disconnection during assembly and maintenance.
3Volume of moving object
If small connectors with reduced stiffness are used, then form factor and weight are reduced, but discerning correct orientation and installation becomes difficult, resulting in damage and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention subsystem serves as an intermediary that provides installation guidance and orientation cues for the small, low-stiffness connector. The retention features include alignment guides and positioning elements that make correct orientation obvious during installation, eliminating the difficulty of installing small flexible connectors without compromising their compact size benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable retention subsystem includes a frame member and at least one board coupling member that is located on the frame member and couples the frame member to a board. A frame alignment member is located on the frame member and aligns a cable connector included on a cable subsystem with a board connector included on the board when the frame alignment member is engaged with a cable alignment member included on the cable connector. The cable retention subsystem also includes at least one frame retention member located on the frame member that engages with the cable connector when the cable connector is coupled with the board connector, and resists movement of the cable connector in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the board.