Connector Module Layout for High-Speed Crosstalk Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors do not adequately address the suppression of crosstalk under high-speed transmission standards such as USB 4.0, leading to suboptimal signal transmission characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A first connector and connector module design that includes a first insulator and a first metal member with specific contact portions to stabilize and ground the connection object, reducing crosstalk by ensuring all contact structures are on the same side of the connection object, thereby improving signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connector designs are used, then the connector structure is simple, but crosstalk suppression is insufficient under high-speed transmission standards
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional components: a first metal member with first and second contact portions, a second metal member with third and fourth contact portions, and insulating members. Each segment performs specific functions (signal contact, ground contact, insulation) to collectively suppress crosstalk while maintaining manageable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the connector have specialized designs: the first contact portion contacts signal lines with specific geometry for signal integrity, the second contact portion contacts ground portions for shielding, and insulating members are positioned at critical locations. This localized optimization suppresses crosstalk without requiring complete redesign of the entire connector
2Reliability
If additional operations are performed to achieve electromagnetic shielding, then crosstalk suppression improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding function and shielding function are merged into the same second contact portion and second metal member. The second contact portion simultaneously contacts ground portions and provides electromagnetic shielding, eliminating the need for separate shielding operations and reducing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The metal members serve multiple functions: electrical contact for signal transmission, ground connection for reference potential, and electromagnetic shielding for crosstalk suppression. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and operations needed, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining shielding effectiveness
3Reliability
If contact structures are positioned on both sides of the connection object, then contact reliability improves, but crosstalk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Insulating members are introduced as intermediary elements between contact structures and the connection object. These insulating members electrically isolate signal contact portions from ground portions while maintaining mechanical stability, enabling contact structures to be positioned on the same side without increasing crosstalk
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design transitions from a symmetric bilateral contact structure to an asymmetric unilateral contact structure with contacts on one side only. This dimensional reconfiguration, combined with insulating members, maintains contact reliability while reducing crosstalk by eliminating opposing contact structures that could induce interference
Data Source
AI summary
A first connector 10 configured to be attached to a connection object 40 that includes a plurality of contact lines 42 exposed at a tip of the connection object 40 and a ground portion 43 covering part of the plurality of contact lines 42, comprises: a first insulator 20 including a holding portion 24 configured to hold the connection object 40 in a state of accommodating the tip; and a first metal member 30 attached to the first insulator 20, wherein the first metal member 30 includes: a first base portion 31 that is plate-shaped; a first contact portion 32 configured to extend from the first base portion 31 toward the tip and contact the plurality of contact lines 42; and a second contact portion 33 configured to be located more on a side opposite to the tip than the first contact portion 32 and contact the ground portion 43.