Modular Ethernet Connector System for High-Density Configurable Applications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Ethernet connector systems lack modularity and configurability to efficiently support a wide range of data rates and performance levels, limiting their adaptability and density in both handheld devices and rack-mounted applications.
Innovation Solution
A modularized configurable connector system with Ethernet connectors that can be sized to fit within handheld devices or rack units, featuring 12 electrical conductor contact positions, variable configuration options, shielding, and latching mechanisms, enabling communication at data rates from less than 10 Gbps to 100 Gbps, and supporting Power Over Ethernet and wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional Ethernet connector systems are used, then basic connectivity is provided, but modularity and configurability are lacking, limiting adaptability to different data rates and performance levels
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is divided into modular components including plug assemblies, receptacle assemblies, and configurable contact elements that can be independently selected and combined. Each module can be configured for different data rates and performance levels, allowing the system to adapt to various Ethernet standards without requiring completely different connector designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system incorporates configurable contact positions and selectable shielding options that allow dynamic adaptation to different application requirements. The ability to configure the number and arrangement of electrical contacts enables the same basic connector structure to support multiple data rates from 10 Mbps to 100 Gbps and beyond.
2Area of stationary object
If connector density is increased to fit more connectors in handheld devices or rack units, then space efficiency improves, but coupling security and signal integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The plug assembly features a nested structure where the contact elements are housed within a protective receptacle that provides mechanical coupling security. The configurable contact positions allow optimal spacing and arrangement to maintain signal integrity while maximizing connector density in limited spaces such as handheld devices and rack-mounted equipment.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If shielding is added to mitigate electromagnetic interference and cross talk, then signal quality improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system provides configurable shielding options where shielding elements can be selectively applied to specific contact pairs or groups based on the required performance level and data rate. This allows shielding to be implemented only where necessary to mitigate electromagnetic interference and cross talk, rather than applying uniform shielding to all connectors, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining signal quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A first modular Ethernet connector and a coupled corresponding second modular Ethernet connector may communicate data based on Ethernet standards. The Ethernet connectors may be configurable and comprise at least twelve contact positions. Different connector configurations may support widely different data rates. The Ethernet connectors may fit within a handheld device and/or may be sized to fit greater than twenty-four connectors in a 1 RU faceplate of a 19 inch rack. A variable number of conductor and/or ground contact positions may be unpopulated or populated with contacts of various materials. The Ethernet connectors may be configured with a properly fitting latching mechanism, with connector shielding and/or to ground cable shielding. The Ethernet connectors may be sized and fitted for secure coupling. The Ethernet connectors may be coupled to a twisted pair cable. Differential pair conductors are terminated adjacently. The Ethernet connectors may comprise POE, a PHY and/or an antenna.