Connector Assembly Holding Point Isolates PCB From Coupling Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector technologies face challenges in securely connecting printed circuit boards (PCBs) to cables while preventing damage to the PCBs during assembly, as the force applied during coupling can be directly transmitted, potentially causing harm.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly design featuring a main body with a holding point supported by an external jig, allowing the housing to be coupled without directly transmitting force to the PCB, and incorporating a double latch structure to prevent unintentional separation, along with a shielded cable configuration using a cover and base shield to reduce noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the housing is directly coupled to the PCB during assembly, then the coupling force is directly transmitted to the PCB, but this causes damage to the PCB
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a holding point as an intermediary element between the PCB and the housing. The holding point receives and distributes the coupling force, preventing direct transmission of force to the PCB. This mediator structure allows the housing to be securely coupled while protecting the PCB from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the PCB, terminals, main body, holding point, and housing. By separating the force-bearing function (held by the holding point and main body) from the electrical connection function (handled by terminals), the design allows force to be managed independently without compromising the PCB.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple connector structure is used, then the assembly is easy to manufacture, but it cannot prevent unintentional separation of the housing and PCB
Solution Approach 1:
The latch structure provides dynamic locking capability that engages automatically during assembly. The latch transitions from an engaged state during coupling to a locked state that prevents unintentional separation, maintaining connection stability without requiring complex manual intervention or additional fastening steps.
3Device complexity
If the cable is exposed without shielding, then the connector structure is simpler, but noise interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs shield structures (cover shield and base shield) that act as flexible electromagnetic barriers around the cable. These shields are integrated into the connector housing, providing noise protection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through their flexible, conformal design that adapts to the cable geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a printed circuit board (PCB), a plurality of terminals disposed on the PCB, a main body disposed on the PCB and supporting the terminals, a cable supported by the terminals, and a housing coupled to the main body, covering the cable, and spaced apart from the PCB. The main body has a holding point contacting an external jig. A space into which the external jig is inserted is provided between the main body and the PCB.