Direct Backplane Connector with 90-Degree Rotation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Backplane connectors face challenges in achieving high density and maintaining consistent impedance while supporting high signaling frequencies, particularly in applications with data rates of 20 Gbps or more, due to the complexity of air flow management and impedance discontinuities introduced by mid-plane boards.
Innovation Solution
A backplane connector system allowing direct mating of two right angle connectors without a secondary connector, featuring edge-coupled terminals with a 90-degree rotation and a shroud to maintain impedance and reduce cross-talk, with an insert providing electrical connection between ground terminals and u-shields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mid-plane board is used to bridge connections between daughter card and main board, then connectivity is achieved, but impedance discontinuities are introduced causing signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple separate connectors and the mid-plane board into a single integrated backplane connector. The connector includes a housing with a first connector portion for the main board and a second connector portion for the daughter card, eliminating the need for separate mid-plane board and multiple connectors. This integration removes impedance discontinuities at connection interfaces while maintaining the bridging function.
2Quantity of substance
If high density pins per inch are implemented, then connectivity is improved, but maintaining consistent impedance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different structural characteristics to different regions of the connector to optimize local performance. The signal paths include ground shields positioned adjacent to signal conductors, and the housing includes recesses and positioning features that maintain precise spacing. These localized structural qualities ensure consistent impedance control in high-density regions where signal integrity is most challenging to maintain.
3Shape
If right angle connectors are used for orthogonal orientation, then spatial arrangement is achieved, but air flow management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the orthogonal orientation function previously requiring separate right-angle connectors and mid-plane board into a single integrated connector body. The housing is designed with built-in geometry that provides the necessary orthogonal connection between main board and daughter card while creating a streamlined structure that simplifies air flow paths and reduces complexity in thermal management.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is configured to provide a mating side that includes a 90 degree rotation about two different axis when compared to a mounting. The connector, when mounted on a first circuit board is thus suitable for directly mating to a right-angle connector that is mounted on a second circuit board, the second circuit board at a being at a 90 angle to the first circuit board. The connector can include a shroud that supports a u-shield that partially shields contacts positioned in the mating side.