Floating Connector Assembly for Misalignment and Overtravel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication systems face issues with connector misalignment and damage due to mechanical loading, leading to signal integrity reduction and increased complexity and cost from specialized tools for mounting electrical connectors.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a biasing member and slider mechanism that allows the cable connector to move rearward, accommodating overtravel and misalignment, and is mounted using a brick structure with panel mounts to secure it to the cartridge, preventing damage during mating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a biasing member is added to allow cable connector movement, then misalignment and overtravel are accommodated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member (spring element) is pre-installed between the cable connector and brick to provide cushioning force before mating occurs. This pre-positioned cushioning element absorbs misalignment and overtravel during the mating process, preventing damage to contacts and shielding while maintaining reliable connector alignment.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical assist devices are used to plug server cards, then mating force is applied, but damage to electrical connector may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member is pre-positioned to provide cushioning during the mating process. When mechanical assist devices apply force to plug the server card, the biasing member absorbs excess force and prevents damage to the electrical connector contacts and shielding, while still allowing proper mating to occur.
3Reliability
If specialized mounting hardware is used for electrical connectors, then secure mounting is achieved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The brick structure serves multiple functions: it provides the mounting interface for securing the cable connector to the chassis, acts as a guide for alignment during insertion, and serves as the anchor point for the biasing member. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized mounting hardware, reducing cost and complexity while maintaining secure mounting.
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
The solution ensures proper alignment and secure mounting of connectors, reducing signal integrity issues and costs by allowing for flexible movement and using standard tools, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of communication system assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing member is compressible in a rearward compression direction to allow the cable connector to move rearward relative to the rear frame member
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a connector holder having a frame including an upper frame member, a lower frame member, and first and second side frame members defining a connector chamber. The frame includes a rear frame member rearward of the connector chamber. The connector assembly includes a cable connector received in the connector chamber having a connector housing holding contact assemblies. The connector assembly includes a biasing member operably coupled between the cable connector and the rear frame member of the connector holder. The biasing member forward biases the cable connector and is compressible in a rearward compression direction to allow the cable connector to move rearward relative to the rear frame member.