Multi-Core Cable Connector Shielding for 500 MHz Signal Integrity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current connector systems for building wiring, particularly those for class E cabling, face challenges in handling complexity, error rates, and inability to reliably transmit frequencies above 500 MHz due to inadequate shielding integration in plug-socket technology, and require cumbersome cable management.

Innovation Solution

A connector system housing with a socket and plug design featuring perpendicular connector removal contacts, angularly bent electrical contacts connected via conductor tracks on a printed circuit board, and a strain relief mechanism, allowing for automated assembly and flexible signal transmission across different plug faces, with a socket sub-housing for protection and ease of handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional plug-socket connector systems are used for building wiring, then electrical connection can be established, but the systems become complex to handle, have high error rates, and cannot reliably transmit frequencies above 500 MHz due to inadequate shielding integration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission reliability above 500 MHzVSAvoidconnector system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector system is divided into separate functional modules: a plug module with integrated shielding, a socket module with corresponding shielding elements, and individual core contacts. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently for high-frequency performance while simplifying assembly and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding elements are nested within the connector housing structure, with the shield forming an integrated part of the plug and socket assemblies. This nesting approach ensures proper shielding integration without adding external complexity, enabling reliable frequency transmission above 500 MHz while maintaining compact connector dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If traditional connector systems are used, then electrical connection is established, but they require cumbersome cable management and are difficult to assemble

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidcable management ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector components are pre-assembled into modular plug and socket units with integrated shielding and contact elements before final installation. This preliminary assembly simplifies the overall manufacturing process and reduces on-site assembly complexity, allowing for easier cable management and faster deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design incorporates self-aligning features and snap-fit mechanisms that automatically position components correctly during assembly, reducing the need for precise manual alignment and simplifying the assembly process. The modular design allows components to self-configure upon insertion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If individual cables are laid for different services, then specific signal requirements can be met, but the cabling becomes complex and difficult to manage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission adaptabilityVSAvoidcabling complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector system is designed with universal plug and socket modules that can handle multiple signal types and frequencies through a standardized interface. The modular contact configuration allows a single cable infrastructure to support various services (data, voice, video) without requiring separate dedicated cabling for each service, reducing overall cabling complexity while maintaining adaptability.

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

Data Source

PatentEP2417675B1Plug system housing for multi-core cables
Publication Date: 2014.05.14 HARTING ELECTRIC GMBH & CO KG
  • EP2417675B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2417675B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2417675B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a plug system housing for multi-core cables, where the connection of the multi-core cable (60) is achieved relatively independently from the plug connectors which are to be used in each case. For this purpose, the cable ends or the individual cores (62) thereof are first connected in each case to a connector block (40). The connector block (40) always has the same form, but can be inserted into plug system housings (1) which are designed independently of said form and have in their interior a device for contacting the individual cores (62), which is configured as an inner housing (20). With the aid of the connector block (40), different signals can thus be transmitted by the plug connections with a corresponding signal conduction in the individual cores (62), wherein different plug system housings, corresponding to various mating faces, can be connected for establishing contact with a corresponding mating connector.