High-Density Cable Connector Module With Direct PCB Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector designs face challenges in achieving high-density cable connections while minimizing space occupation and improving heat dissipation, particularly with increasing terminal density and the need for elastic abutting arms that balance elasticity and space reduction.
Innovation Solution
A connector module with a bracket forming an opening surrounded by side walls, each with receiving grooves for cable connectors, and conductive terminals that directly engage with circuit board elements, enhancing installation density and heat dissipation through a frame-shaped configuration and metal materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a male connector and female connector are used for cable-to-circuit board interconnection, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the occupied volume becomes relatively large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the female connector component from the traditional male-female connector pairing. The cable connector integrates both connection functions, directly contacting the circuit board's conductive pads without requiring a separate mating connector, thereby reducing the overall occupied volume while maintaining reliable electrical connection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the male connector and female connector into a single integrated cable connector. This unified structure combines the contact elements and housing into one component that directly interfaces with the circuit board, reducing the number of parts and the space required for assembly
2Reliability
If the elastic abutting arm length is increased to ensure sufficient elasticity, then connection reliability is improved, but the occupied space of the elastic abutting arm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the elasticity function in a specific localized region (the elastic abutting portion) rather than requiring the entire abutting arm to be long and elastic. The rigid portion provides structural support while the localized elastic portion provides the necessary compliance, achieving reliable connection with minimized space occupation
Solution Approach 2:
The abutting arm is segmented into distinct rigid and elastic portions, each performing its specific function. The rigid portion provides structural integrity and positioning, while the elastic portion provides compliance and reliable contact, allowing the overall structure to be compact while maintaining connection reliability
3Productivity
If terminal density is increased to achieve high-density connections, then space efficiency is improved, but heat dissipation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar heat dissipation to three-dimensional heat dissipation by incorporating through-holes that extend vertically through the connector housing. This dimensional change allows heat to be dissipated from both the top and bottom surfaces simultaneously, effectively managing thermal loads in high-density terminal configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A connector module includes a bracket and a number of cable connectors. The bracket includes a first side wall, a second side wall opposite to the first side wall, a third side wall and a fourth side wall opposite to the third side wall. Each of the first side wall, the second side wall, a third side wall and a fourth side wall defines a number of receiving grooves. The cable connector includes a body, a number of conductive terminals and a cable. The body is at least partially received in the receiving groove. The conductive terminals are configured to be pressed against the conductive elements of a circuit board.