Light Pipe Assembly for Receptacle Connector Airflow and Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication systems face challenges in assembly, particularly when transmitting at high data rates, due to difficulties in routing light pipes and airflow obstruction, and require a cost-effective and reliable assembly method.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle connector assembly with a receptacle cage configured to be mounted on a circuit board, featuring a divider separating the cavity into upper and lower module channels for pluggable modules, and a light pipe assembly with separable mating interfaces for efficient light transmission, allowing for easier assembly and airflow while providing electrical shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If light pipes are routed in conventional communication systems, then data communication function is achieved, but assembly becomes difficult and airflow is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe assembly is divided into multiple separable sections that can be independently routed and assembled. Each section can be installed separately through the receptacle cage structure, avoiding the need for complex single-piece light pipe routing that blocks airflow and complicates assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle cage structure serves as an intermediary framework that guides and supports the light pipe assembly. The cage provides mounting features and routing paths that facilitate easy installation of light pipes without requiring them to block airflow channels or complicate the overall assembly process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical shielding is provided using a receptacle cage, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but assembly complexity increases due to single press-fit operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe assembly is integrated with the receptacle cage structure, combining the shielding function and light pipe routing function into a single unified assembly. This allows the light pipes to be mounted to the cage along with the communication connector during the same press-fit operation, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining electromagnetic shielding effectiveness.
3Reliability
If light pipes are routed through the receptacle cage, then light transmission is achieved, but airflow through the system is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe assembly is segmented into multiple sections that can be routed through dedicated channels or mounted on the exterior of the receptacle cage, rather than forcing a single continuous light pipe through the cage structure. This segmentation allows airflow to pass through the cage while light transmission is maintained through the separated light pipe sections.
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 enables reliable and cost-effective assembly of communication systems by facilitating the integration of pluggable modules and light pipes, improving airflow, and maintaining electrical shielding, thus enhancing the system's performance and assembly efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a light pipe assembly including a first light pipe member coupled to the communication connector and a second light pipe member coupled to the divider
Data Source
AI summary
A receptacle connector assembly includes a receptacle cage having walls defining a cavity and a divider in the cavity including upper and lower panels separated by a gap and separating the cavity into upper and lower module channels receiving corresponding pluggable modules. The receptacle connector assembly includes a communication connector in the cavity having a housing holding upper and lower contact modules. The receptacle connector assembly includes a light pipe assembly including a first light pipe member coupled to the communication connector and a second light pipe member coupled to the divider. The second light pipe member receives light from the first light pipe member at a separable mating interface.