Edge-to-Edge Connector for PCBs Using Segmented Mating Halves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors fail to securely and stably connect two opposing printed circuit boards or similar devices, particularly in applications requiring end-to-end or edge-to-edge connections, such as in avionics, due to lack of compatibility with thin boards and flex circuits.
Innovation Solution
A connector system that mates the edges of two printed circuit boards or flex circuits using electrically conductive transverse members with a mechanical locking feature, allowing for stable end-to-end connections and enabling bussing interconnection between adjacent boards, with features like dielectric housing and hook-like structures for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing connectors are used to connect two opposing printed circuit boards, then connection is achieved, but the connection is not secure or stable enough for certain applications
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate halves (first connector half and second connector half) that mate together. Each half can be independently attached to opposing printed circuit boards, allowing the connection to be segmented and adapted to thin boards and flex circuits while maintaining secure connection through the mating halves
Solution Approach 2:
The connector halves are designed to nest within recesses in the printed circuit boards. The first connector half nests in a recess of the first board, and the second connector half nests in a recess of the second board, creating a stable nested configuration that secures the connection
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing connectors are used, then connection between boards is achieved, but they cannot accommodate two opposing printed circuit boards positioned adjacent to one another
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is segmented into two separate halves that can independently engage with opposing printed circuit boards. This segmentation allows the connector to accommodate boards positioned adjacent to one another while maintaining secure connection through the mating connector halves
Solution Approach 2:
The connector extends in multiple dimensions with protrusions and recesses that engage in perpendicular directions. The connector halves extend from opposing boards and mate together, creating a three-dimensional connection that secures boards positioned adjacent to one another
3Reliability
If a secure mechanical connection is implemented, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector halves are designed to merge with each other when mated, combining the two separate connector halves into a unified connection structure. This merging provides secure mechanical connection while avoiding the complexity of more elaborate locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The connector halves are designed to self-align and self-secure through their protrusions and recesses. The mechanical locking feature automatically engages when the connector halves are mated, providing secure connection without requiring additional complex fastening operations
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 1E~1F
AI summary
A connector apparatus (100) for connecting at least two electronic component substrates (150, 152), for example, printed circuit boards or flex circuits, to one another at the edges thereof, wherein each of the at least two substrates (150, 152) further comprises at least one electrically conductive contact surface (151, 153), and wherein the connector apparatus (100) further includes: at least one electrically conductive transverse conducting member (140), wherein a first portion of the at least one transverse conducting member (140) physically touches the contact surface (151) on the first substrate (150), and wherein a second portion of the transverse conducting member (140) physically touches the contact surface (153) on the second substrate (152); and mechanical means for securing the at least one transverse conducting member (140) to each of the substrates (150, 152) and to each of the contact surfaces (151, 153).