Electrical Connector Assembly With Frame-Pressed Circuit Board Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies face issues with unreliable retention of circuit boards due to limited size and design of retaining elements, leading to potential dislodging.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector assembly with a first and second frame structure, where the second frame presses against the circuit board to secure it in place, utilizing locking mechanisms and protruding ribs for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bumps and recesses are used to hold the adapter board, then the adapter board can be retained, but the limited size results in unreliable fixing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from point-contact retention (bumps and recesses) to surface-contact retention (second frame pressing against the circuit board). The second frame introduces a new dimensional approach by providing a continuous pressing surface across multiple locations, transforming the retention mechanism from discrete points to an extended surface area, thereby improving reliability without being constrained by the size limitations of traditional bump structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining structure is segmented into multiple pressing points through the second frame, which contacts the circuit board at multiple locations simultaneously. This segmentation distributes the retention force across several points rather than relying on a single bump structure, enhancing overall fixing reliability while maintaining a compact overall design.
2Reliability
If the second frame presses against the circuit board, then retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides retention by pressing against the circuit board, provides structural support for the connector assembly, and defines the overall geometry of the assembly. By making the frame multi-functional, the patent improves retention reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the frame's primary structural role is enhanced to also perform retention functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention function is merged with the structural frame rather than being a separate component. The second frame combines the structural support role with the retention role, pressing against the circuit board to provide reliable fixing while maintaining structural integrity. This merging reduces the need for additional dedicated retention components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly includes: a first frame defining plural accommodating cavities; plural transmission units partially received in the accommodating cavities, respectively, each of the transmission units comprising a card edge connector received in a corresponding accommodating cavity, a motherboard connector, and a circuit board connected with the card edge connector and the motherboard connector; and a second frame attached to the first frame; wherein the second frame presses against and hold the circuit boards in position.