Connector Shielding Retention Element for Multi-Housing Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shielding solutions for signal connectors require redesign when used with different housings, which can alter electromagnetic properties and necessitate additional design changes to maintain signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
A shielding design featuring a longitudinal circumferential retention element that can interact with various housing configurations without compromising electromagnetic shielding, formed by deviations in the peripheral surface, such as grooves or ribs, allowing for easy adaptation to different housings without redesigning the shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a known shielding design with fixed latching means is used, then the shielding can be effectively retained in a specific housing, but the shielding cannot be used with different housing configurations without redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The retention element is designed with a universal geometry (e.g., circumferential groove or rib) that can interact with multiple types of complementary retention means on different housings. This allows the same shielding design to be used across various housing configurations without modification, achieving multi-functionality and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention function is segmented from the main shielding structure into a dedicated retention element (groove or rib). This segmentation allows the retention feature to be independently designed and optimized for versatility while keeping the electromagnetic shielding walls intact and unchanged, thus avoiding the need to redesign the entire shielding for different housings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the shielding design is changed to accommodate different housings, then adaptability improves, but the electromagnetic shielding properties are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The retention element is segmented as a separate functional feature from the electromagnetic shielding walls. The shielding walls maintain their original continuous geometry and material properties to preserve electromagnetic performance, while the retention element (groove or rib) provides the adaptability function without interfering with the shielding integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention element is placed in a localized region of the shielding where it does not compromise the overall electromagnetic shielding properties. The groove or rib is designed with dimensions and positioning that minimize impact on the electromagnetic field distribution while providing sufficient retention capability for various housing configurations.
3Ease of operation
If traditional latching means like holes or hooks are used, then the shielding can be fixed in a housing, but additional design changes are needed when housing types change
Solution Approach 1:
The retention element is designed with a universal geometry (circumferential groove or rib) that can interact with multiple types of complementary retention means on different housings. This allows the same shielding design to be used across various housing configurations without modification, achieving multi-functionality and adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a shielding (1) for a signal connector (3), the shielding (1) comprising a plurality of shielding walls (13) which are arranged so as to electromagnetically shield at least one signal contact (7) of the connector (3), the shielding (1) further comprising a forward end (17) at which the shielding (1) is open for receiving a mating connector (5) along an insertion direction (I) and wherein at least two shielding walls (13) are parallel with each other at least in sections in a cross section perpendicular to the insertion direction (I). In order to facilitate manufacturing of a versatile shielding without loosing electromagnetic shielding properties, it is intended that the shielding (1) is provided with at least one longitudinal circumferential retention element (25) that extends along a circumferential direction (C) of the shielding (1). The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing such a shielding.