Multi-dock PCB with Securing Rails for Compact Vibration-Resistant Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printed circuit boards (PCBs) have a large overall volume due to connectors extending outwards, and the connections between electronic components and PCBs are loose and unstable, prone to disconnection under vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-dock printed circuit board design featuring a PCB substrate with conductive traces, dock openings with securing rails and attachment points, connectors, and locking members that securely couple external devices between the locking members and connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If connectors are arranged so that electronic components extend out from the PCB, then electronic components can be connected to the PCB, but the overall volume of the PCB and connected electronic components becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements docking openings that allow external electronic components to be inserted into and nested within the PCB structure. The securing rails extend into these openings to hold components in a nested configuration rather than extending outward, thereby reducing the overall volume while maintaining connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a conventional outward-extending connector arrangement to an inward-extending securing rail arrangement within docking openings. This dimensional reconfiguration allows components to be accessed from the sides or top rather than extending in the traditional outward direction, optimizing space utilization.
2Device complexity
If electronic components are connected to the PCB via connectors only, then connection is simple, but the connection becomes loose and unstable, prone to disconnection under vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connection function (connector) with the mechanical retention function (securing rail) into a unified docking structure. The securing rail extends into the docking opening to provide mechanical retention while the connector provides electrical connectivity, creating a combined solution that addresses both connectivity and stability requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing rail features a curved profile that complements the shape of the docking opening. This curved geometry allows the rail to flex slightly and conform to the opening, creating a more stable and vibration-resistant connection compared to rigid straight connectors.
3Device complexity
If a single docking location is provided on the PCB, then the structure is simple, but multiple external devices cannot be connected simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs multiple docking openings and securing rails that can accommodate different types of external electronic components. Each docking location provides universal connectivity options, allowing the same basic structure to support various devices such as radios, USB dongles, or other electronic components depending on the connector type provided.
Data Source
AI summary
A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a PCB substrate comprising a conductive trace; a dock opening formed from a cutout extending through the PCB substrate; a securing rail coupled to the PCB substrate along at least one edge of the dock opening, the securing rail comprising at least one attachment point; at least one connector coupled to the PCB substrate; and a locking member coupleable to the securing rail at the at least one attachment point.