Connector EMI Shielding Snap-Fit Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional connector EMI shielding structures require high accuracy and complex manufacturing processes due to their small size and design, leading to increased labor and costs.

Innovation Solution

The connector EMI shielding structure features an enclosure with tongues, bent hooks, and retaining sections, along with a shielding unit that includes elastic leaves and stoppers, allowing for easy assembly without welding by engaging these features for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If spot-welding is used to attach shielding elements to the enclosure, then the shielding elements can be firmly attached, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical snap-fit assembly system. The shielding elements include engagement protrusions that fit into corresponding recesses on the enclosure, allowing firm attachment through simple mechanical insertion rather than complex welding procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding elements incorporate elastic leaves that provide self-latching functionality. When the engagement protrusions are inserted into the recesses, the elastic leaves automatically deform and lock the shielding elements in place, eliminating the need for external welding operations or additional fastening steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Strength

If spot-welding is used to attach shielding elements to the enclosure, then the shielding elements can be firmly attached, but manufacturing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the time-consuming welding process with a rapid mechanical snap-fit assembly. The shielding elements with engagement protrusions can be quickly inserted into corresponding recesses on the enclosure, dramatically reducing assembly time while maintaining firm attachment through the elastic leaf locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Strength

If high accuracy spot-welding is performed on small connecting sections, then shielding elements can be securely attached, but labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidease of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the high-precision welding operation with a tolerance-friendly mechanical engagement system. The engagement protrusions and recesses are designed with generous tolerances that do not require high-precision machining or welding, making the assembly process much easier and less labor-intensive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic leaves provide self-aligning and self-latching functionality during assembly. As the shielding elements are inserted, the elastic leaves automatically deform to accommodate minor misalignments and then lock the components in place, eliminating the need for skilled welders or complex positioning fixtures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 design enables easy and firm assembly of the shielding structure, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while ensuring secure attachment without the risk of separation.

Implementation Method 1

one or more elastic leaves extended rearward from an inner edge of the opening to press elastically against the enclosure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7530845B1Connector EMI shielding structure
Publication Date: 2009.05.12 ALL BEST ELECTRONICS
  • US7530845B1 patent drawing
  • US7530845B1 patent drawing
  • US7530845B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A connector EMI shielding structure includes an enclosure having a front open end and a rear end closed by a back plate, and being provided on two sidewalls with a bent hook each; and a shielding unit for fitting around the front open end of the enclosure. The shielding unit includes a top panel, two side panels, and two bottom panels. Each of the top panel, the side panels, and the bottom panels of the shielding unit is formed with an opening, from an inner edge of which one or more elastic leaves are extended rearward for elastically pressing against the enclosure. And, each of the side panels of the shielding unit is provided on a rear edge with a cut for engaging with the bent hooks on the sidewalls of the enclosure. With these arrangements, the shielding unit can be easily and firmly assembled to the enclosure.