Segmented Ground Shields for Contact Module EMI Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors lack sufficient shielding along the length of signal contacts, particularly between pairs of signal contacts, which can lead to inadequate protection against electromagnetic interference and increased costs due to the use of conductive shells like plated plastic or die cast materials.
Innovation Solution
A shielding structure is implemented using a dielectric holder with first and second ground shields positioned on either side, featuring a main body with rails and gaps, and separator strips that extend between signal contacts, providing electrical shielding along the entire length of the signal contacts and connecting to the mating and mounting ends for enhanced protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If ground shields are provided only at the mating interface, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but electrical shielding along the length of signal conductors is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The shield structure is divided into multiple segments: ground shields at the mating interface, ground shields at the mounting end, and intermediate ground shields positioned along the length of the contact module. This segmentation provides comprehensive shielding along the entire signal path while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends shielding from a single point (mating interface only) to a three-dimensional arrangement by adding ground shields at multiple positions along the length of the contact module and at different heights, creating a comprehensive shielding envelope around signal conductors.
2Reliability
If conductive shells are used to provide shielding between pairs of signal conductors, then electrical shielding is improved, but manufacturing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using expensive conductive shells, the patent segments the shielding function into multiple discrete ground shields positioned at strategic locations. Each ground shield is a separate component that can be manufactured independently and assembled into the contact module, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining shielding effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate ground shields as mediator elements between signal conductors at different positions along the contact module. These intermediate shields provide the necessary electromagnetic isolation without requiring expensive conductive shell materials, achieving the same shielding function through a different, more cost-effective mechanism.
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
This solution provides effective circumferential shielding for signal contacts, reducing electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference while being cost-effective compared to traditional methods, ensuring reliable electrical performance at high speeds without the need for expensive conductive shells.
Implementation Method 1
A shield structure is coupled to the dielectric holder providing electrical shielding for the signal contacts. The first and second ground shields are electrically connected together between corresponding signal contacts and providing electrical shielding between corresponding signal contacts along a majority of a length of the transition portions.
Data Source
AI summary
A contact module includes a dielectric holder having right and left sides holding signal contacts. A shield structure is coupled to the dielectric holder providing electrical shielding for the signal contacts. The shield structure has a first ground shield provided at the right side of the dielectric holder and a second ground shield provided at the left side of the dielectric holder. The first and second ground shields are electrically connected together between corresponding pairs of the signal contacts and providing electrical shielding between corresponding signal contacts along a majority of a length of the transition portions.