Keyed I/O Connector Cage for EMI Shielding and Double Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current input/output (IO) connectors, such as SFP and QSFP, face challenges in supporting high data rates while minimizing electromagnetic interference (EMI), and there is a need for increased channel density without compromising performance.
Innovation Solution
A conductive cage and plug connector assembly that forms a telescoping structure with a keyway and spring fingers, providing EMI shielding and a waveguide filter to contain electromagnetic interference and ensure proper orientation, allowing for double density configurations that maintain high-speed performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a conductive cage and shielding system are added to minimize EMI, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested shielding structure where an inner conductive cage is placed inside an outer conductive cage, with the plug connector housed within the inner cage. This nested arrangement creates multiple layers of EMI protection without requiring a completely separate shielding system, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective EMI minimization.
2Quantity of substance
If double density configurations are implemented to increase channel density, then channel capacity is doubled, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric keying features including a keyway with three distinct sides and a corresponding projection on the plug connector. This asymmetric design provides mechanical guidance and alignment during insertion, ensuring precise positioning of the plug connector within the cage assembly. The asymmetric keying mechanism enables double density configurations by maintaining accurate alignment even with increased channel density, thereby reducing the overall manufacturing precision burden.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If spring fingers are added to engage with the conductive bezel, then EMI shielding is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring fingers serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide EMI shielding by maintaining electrical contact with the conductive bezel, ensure secure mechanical engagement of the plug connector, and accommodate thermal expansion or contraction movements. By combining these functions into a single component, the patent enhances EMI shielding without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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 effectively reduces EMI, enhances high-speed performance, and allows for double the channel density within the same form factor, ensuring compatibility with legacy systems while maintaining signal integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The cage provides EMI shielding for the plug connector
Implementation Method 2
providing EMI shielding and a waveguide filter to contain electromagnetic interference
Data Source
AI summary
A cage includes a cage housing forming an inner area with internal walls that define an upper port and a lower port. Each of the ports include a cap that forms a keyway. The cap in an upper bay can extend from the upper bay in a direction that is opposite a direction the cap in the lower port extends. The cage may include a plurality of spring fingers therein which engage with a conductive bezel. The cage provides EMI shielding for the plug connector.