Card Edge Connector Assembly With Guide Module Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing card edge connectors face issues with stress and strain during module mating, leading to potential damage and retention problems, which limit the placement of other components on the host circuit board.
Innovation Solution
A card edge connector assembly featuring a card guide module with support beams secured to the host circuit board and a latch mechanism that securely engages and disengages the pluggable module, alleviating stress on the connector and allowing for reliable module retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If latching systems are designed and occupied around the card edge connectors for retaining pluggable modules, then module retention is improved, but space for placing other components on the host circuit board is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The card guide module is integrated with the card edge connector assembly, combining the functions of module retention and connector support into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate latching systems around the connector, thereby retaining modules reliably while preserving board space for other components.
Solution Approach 2:
The card guide module serves multiple functions: it acts as a retention structure for pluggable modules, provides structural support for the card edge connector, and serves as a mounting platform on the host circuit board. This multi-functionality achieves reliable module retention without requiring additional dedicated latching components that would consume board space.
2Ease of operation
If card edge connectors are subjected to stresses and strains during mating with pluggable modules, then module connection is achieved, but soldered connections between contacts and host circuit board may be damaged or broken
Solution Approach 1:
The card guide module acts as an intermediary structure between the pluggable module and the card edge connector. It provides a stable mounting platform that absorbs and distributes mating stresses, preventing these forces from being transmitted directly to the soldered connections of the card edge connector with the host circuit board.
Solution Approach 2:
The card guide module is designed with a rigid structure that anticipates and cushions the stresses and strains occurring during module mating. This pre-engineered structural support protects the vulnerable soldered connections before damage can occur, ensuring reliable electrical connections while enabling smooth module insertion and removal.
Data Source
AI summary
A card edge connector assembly includes a card edge connector having a housing defining a card slot receiving a pluggable module and a card guide module coupled to the housing. The card guide module has a main body having a cavity receiving the pluggable module and support beams secured to the host circuit board with a window defined between the support beams under the main body receiving the card edge connector. A latch is coupled to the main body being latchably coupled to the pluggable module in a latched position to secure the pluggable module in the cavity and being decoupled from the pluggable module in an unlatched position to allow the pluggable module to be removed from the cavity. An actuator with a ramp surface may be pressed downwardly to drive the latch to the unlatched position.