Electrical Connector Light Guide and PCB Holding Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors with internal printed circuit boards lack an improved design that effectively integrates light sources and prevents movement of the circuit board.
Innovation Solution
A cable-end electrical connector featuring a vertical internal printed circuit board with light sources, a light transmissive member allowing light emission, and a cover that encloses the light transmissive member and printed circuit board, with a holding section to prevent up-and-down movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the printed circuit board is positioned vertically with light sources on the front surface, then light emission functionality is improved, but the circuit board becomes prone to up-and-down movement
Solution Approach 1:
The light transmissive member acts as an intermediary component between the light sources and the external environment. It is integrally formed with holding sections that mechanically engage with the printed circuit board, providing stable positioning while allowing light to pass through. This mediator structure simultaneously achieves both light transmission and mechanical stabilization functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated component. The light transmissive member is integrally formed with holding sections that simultaneously perform light transmission and mechanical support functions. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate mounting structures and provides stable positioning of the vertically oriented circuit board.
2Ease of manufacture
If the light transmissive member is integrally formed with holding sections, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light transmissive member is designed with distinct functional segments: a light transmission portion and holding sections. This segmentation allows the single integrated component to perform multiple functions while maintaining manufacturability. The holding sections are specifically shaped to engage with corresponding features on the printed circuit board, providing stable positioning through geometric interlocking.
3Reliability
If the cover encloses the light transmissive member and printed circuit board, then protection is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed as a multi-functional protective enclosure that simultaneously protects the light transmissive member, printed circuit board, and light sources. It provides mechanical protection, structural support, and environmental sealing. The cover works in conjunction with the holding sections to create a unified protective assembly that simplifies the overall structure while enhancing reliability.
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
The solution enhances the design of electrical connectors by securely positioning the printed circuit board and providing a means for light emission, improving functionality and stability.
Implementation Method 1
a light transmissive member permitting a light emitted from the light source to pass through
Data Source
AI summary
A cable-end electrical connector includes a frontal mating member; a vertical internal printed circuit board defining a front surface; a number of light sources positioned on the front surface of the printed circuit board; a light transmissive member permitting a light emitted from the light source to pass through; and a cover enclosing the light transmissive member and the printed circuit board. The light transmissive member includes a penetrable portion permitting the light to pass through and a holding section holding the printed circuit board and constraining the printed circuit board from moving in an up-and-down direction.