Segmented EMI Connector Gasket for Reliable Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing EMI connector plug gaskets require an additional manufacturing step of embossing, which increases costs and time, and must be replaced if the plug connector is disassembled, limiting interoperability and increasing manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A two-part conductive gasket system where each part clips onto respective connector pieces, eliminating the need for embossing and allowing the gasket to remain intact during disassembly and reassembly of the plug connector, with spring tabs and alignment features for secure electrical connection to the EMI shielding cage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal spring gasket is used to electrically connect the plug connector to the EMI shielding cage, then EMI shielding effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase due to the required embossing step
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is divided into two separate conductive parts, each engaging with a different connector piece. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex embossing operations while maintaining electrical connection functionality, as each part can be independently formed and attached to its respective connector piece.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive gasket parts serve as intermediary elements between the connector pieces and the EMI shielding cage. These intermediaries provide the necessary electrical connection path without requiring complex integration, allowing standard manufacturing processes to be used for both the connector and gasket components.
2Reliability
If a metal spring gasket is used to electrically connect the plug connector to the EMI shielding cage, then EMI shielding effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing time increases due to the extra embossing step
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the gasket into two separate parts that can be independently manufactured and attached, the embossing operation is eliminated. Each conductive part can be formed using standard processes and then simply clipped or attached to its respective connector piece, significantly reducing manufacturing cycle time.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive gasket parts are designed to be pre-formed and ready for attachment before the final connector assembly. This preliminary preparation allows the gasket components to be manufactured separately using efficient processes, and then quickly integrated into the connector assembly without requiring time-consuming embossing operations during final assembly.
3Reliability
If a metal spring gasket is used to electrically connect the plug connector to the EMI shielding cage, then EMI shielding effectiveness is improved, but the gasket must be replaced when the plug connector is disassembled, reducing interoperability
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is segmented into two conductive parts, each permanently attached to a specific connector piece. When connectors are disassembled for interoperability purposes, the gasket parts remain intact with their respective connector pieces, eliminating the need to destroy or replace the gasket. This segmentation enables connectors from different vendors to be interchanged while maintaining EMI shielding effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive gasket parts are designed to be universal components that can be attached to various connector pieces from different vendors. Each gasket part maintains its electrical connection function while being compatible with multiple connector designs, enhancing interoperability without compromising EMI shielding effectiveness.
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 simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and ensures the gasket remains functional without the need for replacement when the connector is disassembled, enhancing interoperability and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining effective EMI shielding.
Implementation Method 1
the spring tabs are configured to electrically connect the connector to an EMI shielding cage
Implementation Method 2
a first conductive part including a plurality of spring tabs, a second conductive part including a plurality of spring tabs
Data Source
AI summary
A gasket 102 for an Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) connector 100 comprising a first conductive part 104 including a plurality of spring tabs 108, a second conductive part 106 including a plurality of spring tabs 108, wherein the first conductive part 104 is configured to engage a first connector piece 110 and the second conductive part 106 is configured to engage a second connector piece 112, wherein the first conductive part is configured to engage the second conductive part when the first connector piece 110 is attached to the second connector piece 112, and wherein the spring tabs 108 are configured to electrically connect the connector 100 to an EMI shielding cage.