Card Edge Connector Grounding Member Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing card edge connectors with grounding bars face a risk of disengagement from terminal modules, compromising electrical performance.
Innovation Solution
A card edge connector design featuring an elongate insulating housing with a terminal module and a grounding member comprising first and second contacting arms that surround the insulating base, ensuring secure contact with both signal and grounding terminals, enhancing electrical performance through improved grounding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If grounding bars are assembled to the sides of the terminal modules, then grounding function is provided, but the grounding bars may disengage from the terminal modules
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding member is divided into multiple grounding fingers (first grounding fingers and second grounding fingers) that can independently contact different grounding terminals. This segmentation allows each finger to be retained by corresponding terminals while collectively providing comprehensive grounding, preventing disengagement of the entire grounding structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding members are nested within or alongside the terminal modules, with grounding fingers positioned to contact grounding terminals from the sides. This nested arrangement allows the grounding members to be securely retained by the terminal module structure while maintaining effective grounding contact, preventing disengagement.
2Reliability
If grounding bars are used for grounding, then grounding function is achieved, but the structure is complex and disengagement risk exists
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using single complex grounding bars, the invention segments the grounding function into multiple simple grounding fingers that can be independently formed and positioned. Each finger contacts a specific grounding terminal, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable grounding through multiple contact points.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal module structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for signal terminals and simultaneously retains the grounding members through the same structural elements. The grounding fingers and terminals work together as an integrated system, reducing the need for separate complex grounding structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A card edge connector includes a housing defining a card slot, a terminal module and a grounding member. The terminal module includes two rows of terminals and an insulating base with a first surface, a second surface and end surfaces between and connecting with the first and second surfaces. Each row of terminals includes a plurality of signal terminals and a plurality of grounding terminals. The terminals includes contacting sections extending out the first surface of the insulating base and into the card slot, leg sections extending out the second surface of the insulating base, and connecting sections. The grounding member fitly surrounds the end surfaces of the insulating base and includes a group of first contacting arms and a group of second contacting arms, each grounding terminal is contacted with one first contacting arm and one second contacting arm.