Modular Connector Assembly for Flexible PCB Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies for fiber optic cables in electronic devices are inflexible, requiring a fixed number of connections and specific configurations, which limits their adaptability to changing conditions and increases manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple versions with different cable counts and fixed connection layouts.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly arrangement featuring plug and receptacle connectors with integrated photoelectric conversion elements, allowing for the connection of single fiber optic cables, enabling flexible placement and number adjustments on a circuit board, and facilitating efficient use of both board faces with staggered assembly configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a universal connector assembly with multiple fiber optic cables is used to reduce the number of connectors, then the device becomes more compact, but the adaptability to changing conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector assembly is divided into multiple independent single-connector units, each handling one fiber optic cable. This segmentation allows each unit to be independently configured and positioned, providing adaptability while maintaining compactness through modular arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assemblies are designed to be dynamically configurable in terms of number and position. The system allows flexible selection of connector locations on the circuit board and adjusts the number of connectors based on changing requirements, transforming a static fixed configuration into a dynamic adaptable one.
2Manufacturing precision
If a universal connector assembly with fixed number of fiber optic cables is manufactured, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to varying conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing one fixed universal assembly, the system uses multiple standardized single-connector units that can be manufactured with high precision using the same processes. These modular units are then configured in different quantities and arrangements to meet varying requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of connector quantity from a fixed value to a variable that can be adjusted based on requirements. By maintaining standardized connector designs while varying the number and arrangement of units, the system achieves both manufacturing precision and adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If connector assemblies are disposed in distributed locations on circuit board, then adaptability to device configuration deteriorates, but ease of operation improves
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed connector assemblies are segmented into independent units that can be individually positioned on the circuit board. Each unit maintains the same standardized structure, simplifying the overall arrangement despite the distributed locations and enabling flexible positioning to match device configurations.
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
This solution allows for optimal design flexibility and efficient use of space in electronic devices by enabling the free selection of connector assembly locations and numbers, accommodating varying fiber optic cable requirements without the need for multiple assembly versions, thus enhancing adaptability and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion element that converts optical signals and electrical signals from one to the other is incorporated into said plug connector
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly arrangement comprising, disposed on the faces of a circuit board in an electronic device, connector assemblies which, along with having a plug connector that incorporates a photoelectric conversion element capable of converting optical signals and electrical signals from one to the other and a receptacle connector with which said plug connector is mated, have the plug connector and the receptacle connector electrically connected through mutual contact between terminals; wherein the plug connector, from which a fiber optic cable for optical signal transmission that is connected to the photoelectric conversion element extends in one direction from said plug connector, also has terminals connected to the above-mentioned photoelectric conversion element; the fiber optic cable is a single fiber optic cable; and a plurality of connector assemblies are disposed on at least one of the two faces of the circuit board.