Compact Connector Insulator Layout for Strength and Signal Shielding

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connectors do not adequately address the need for improved insulator strength in reduced-size connectors to maintain sufficient structural integrity while accommodating multiple contacts for different circuit types, particularly in electronic apparatuses requiring reduced weight and size.

Innovation Solution

The connector design includes an insulator with specific attachment portions and wall structures that enhance the strength of the insulator, ensuring sufficient structural integrity even when multiple contacts are separated, using a combination of insulating and heat-resistant synthetic resin materials and shield members to maintain transmission characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If multiple contacts are attached to a single insulator in a compact connector module, then the device achieves size reduction and multifunctionality, but the insulator strength is compromised and breakage risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector sizeVSAvoidinsulator strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The insulator is divided into multiple separate wall portions (first wall portion, second wall portion, third wall portion, fourth wall portion) that are spatially separated from each other. Each wall portion independently supports a contact, distributing mechanical stresses and preventing crack propagation across the entire insulator. This segmentation allows the insulator to maintain adequate strength while supporting multiple contacts in a compact configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each wall portion of the insulator is locally optimized to provide targeted support for its associated contact. The wall portions have different spatial arrangements and structural characteristics tailored to the specific mechanical and electrical requirements of each contact type, allowing the insulator to maintain high strength at critical attachment points while keeping the overall device compact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Volume of moving object

If multiple contacts are attached to a single insulator in a compact connector module, then the device achieves size reduction, but the reliability is reduced due to increased breakage risk

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector sizeVSAvoidconnector reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The insulator is divided into multiple separate wall portions (first wall portion, second wall portion, third wall portion, fourth wall portion) that are spatially separated from each other. Each wall portion independently supports a contact, distributing mechanical stresses and preventing crack propagation across the entire insulator. This segmentation allows the insulator to maintain adequate strength while supporting multiple contacts in a compact configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The separated wall portion structure provides inherent stress distribution and crack arrest capabilities before failures can propagate. By pre-configuring the insulator with spatially separated support structures, the design anticipates and mitigates potential failure modes, enhancing reliability before actual use conditions are applied.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If separate wall portions are used for each contact on the insulator, then the noise shielding capability is improved, but the insulator structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenoise shieldingVSAvoidinsulator structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insulator is divided into multiple separate wall portions (first wall portion, second wall portion, third wall portion, fourth wall portion) that are spatially separated from each other. Each wall portion independently supports a contact, distributing mechanical stresses and preventing crack propagation across the entire insulator. This segmentation allows the insulator to maintain adequate strength while supporting multiple contacts in a compact configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The separated wall portion structure simultaneously achieves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for contacts, creates spatial separation for noise shielding, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate shielding components, balancing complexity with performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12620747B2Connector, connector module, and electronic apparatus

Publication Date: 2026.05.05 KYOCERA CORP

AI summary

A connector (10) according to the present disclosure includes a first contact (30a), a second contact (30b), and an insulator (20). The insulator (20) includes a first attachment portion (21) to which the first contact (30a) is attached and a second attachment portion (22) that is formed continuously with the first attachment portion (21) and to which the second contact (30b) is attached. The first attachment portion (21) includes a first wall portion (213) to which the first contact (30a) is attached. The second attachment portion (22) includes a second wall portion (222b) that is separated from the first wall portion (213) and to which the second contact (30b) is attached.