Clip-In Support Ring for EMA Fixation and EMC Continuity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor devices face challenges in securely fixing electronic module assemblies (EMAs) while ensuring robust mechanical and electrical connections, particularly in maintaining electromagnetic compatibility and preventing contamination.

Innovation Solution

The use of clip-in support rings that provide fixation through a combination of spring force and reaction force, with affixation to the housing via spot welding, ensuring secure mechanical and electrical connections and continuity between the EMA and the housing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the EMA is mechanically fixed above the diaphragm for wire-bonding, then the electrical connection between EMA and housing is improved, but the mechanical stability and electromagnetic compatibility may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidmechanical stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The support ring acts as an intermediary component between the EMA and the housing. It provides a dedicated mechanical interface that transfers loads away from the EMA while maintaining electrical continuity through integrated contact elements, thus resolving the conflict between mechanical stability and electrical connection requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The support ring performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the EMA, establishes electrical connection to the housing, and contributes to electromagnetic compatibility through its conductive structure. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by integrating what were previously separate concerns into a single component

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the EMA is securely fixed to ensure mechanical stability, then the mechanical connection is improved, but the ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical connectionVSAvoidease of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The support ring incorporates elastic elements that provide dynamic, reversible fixation. The elastic arms can be deformed during assembly to facilitate easy installation, then return to their original shape to provide secure mechanical fixation, thus resolving the contradiction between strong mechanical connection and ease of assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The support ring is divided into multiple independent elastic arms that can be assembled separately and independently. This segmentation allows each arm to be easily positioned and secured, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining strong mechanical fixation through the combined action of multiple arms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution provides a robust and reliable fixation of the EMA, maintaining electromagnetic compatibility and preventing contamination, while ensuring secure electrical connections and mechanical stability over the device's lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

a spring element (240) extending beyond the plane (260) and configured to secure the electronic module assembly (140) to the support ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

affixing (e.g., spot welding) a clip-in support ring described herein to a housing of the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS9222615B2Clip-in support ring
Publication Date: 2015.12.29 SENSATA TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US9222615B2 patent drawing
  • US9222615B2 patent drawing
  • US9222615B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an embodiment, a support ring may include an arm and a hook. The arm may be located at a first end of the support ring. The arm may provide a spring force to a circuit board that is loaded in the support ring. The hook may be located at a second end of the support ring. The hook may extend upward from the support ring. The second end may be opposite the first end. The hook may provide a reaction force on the circuit board. The reaction forced may be a force in reaction to the spring force. The support ring may include one or more legs. The legs may extend downward from the support ring.