Inter-Board Terminal Module Structure for Dense Insulated Connections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic component modules require additional space for connector fitting, increasing size and manufacturing costs due to the number of connectors and complex component management.

Innovation Solution

An electronic component module with a pin header that includes rod-shaped terminal portions and a holding portion with insertion holes, where the terminal portions are inserted and held at intervals, and partitioned by a partition wall extending beyond the protruding portions, reducing the need for connectors and simplifying the connection structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If connector fitting is used to achieve electrical connection between circuit boards, then electrical connection is established, but the module size increases due to required space for connectors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidmodule size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the electrical connection function and mechanical support function into a single integrated structure. The circuit board directly supports terminal portions that provide electrical connection, eliminating the need for separate connectors. This integration reduces the space required for connection components and minimizes the overall module size while maintaining reliable electrical connection between boards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple male and female connectors are provided for connection at multiple positions, then electrical connection is achieved at multiple positions, but manufacturing cost increases due to increased number of components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection at multiple positionsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit board is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides mechanical support and simultaneously integrates multiple terminal portions for electrical connection at different positions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate male and female connectors, reducing the total component count and simplifying manufacturing processes while achieving electrical connection at multiple required positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If terminal portions are arranged at high density in the holding portion, then connection capability is increased, but insulation between terminal portions becomes difficult to maintain

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidinsulation between terminal portions
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holding portion is designed with differentiated local structures: partition walls are positioned strategically between terminal portions to provide insulation where needed, while maintaining open spaces where electrical connection is required. This localized structural variation allows high-density arrangement of terminal portions while preserving necessary insulation properties through the partition wall configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12604421B2Electronic component module
Publication Date: 2026.04.14 YAZAKI CORP
  • US12604421B2 patent drawing
  • US12604421B2 patent drawing
  • US12604421B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic component module includes a first board, a second board, and an inter-board connecting portion disposed between the first and second boards and including terminal portions and a holding portion having a plurality of insertion holes into which the terminal portions are inserted. The terminal portion includes a protruding portion provided between one end and another end of the terminal portion in an insertion direction of the terminal portion into the insertion hole and protruding from the terminal portion in a direction intersecting the insertion direction. The one end and the other end of the terminal portions are electrically connected to the first and second boards, respectively. The inter-board connecting portion includes a partition wall partitioning first insertion hole and second insertion hole adjacent to each other and extending to a position in the insertion direction beyond the protruding portions of the terminal portions.