PCB Connection Unit for High-Speed PLC Module Interconnect

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Solution Overview

Problem

Standard data connectors in electronic devices are slow, limiting data transfer rates between modules in modular electronic devices like programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

Innovation Solution

A PCB connection unit with slideable edge card sockets and interconnect boards that allow for electrical contact between PCBs, facilitating faster data transfer and reduced electromagnetic interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If standard data connectors are used to connect modules, then module connectivity is achieved, but data transfer speed is limited and electromagnetic interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical data connectors with a direct PCB-to-PCB contact system. The connection unit establishes electrical contact through aligned contact pads on the PCBs themselves, eliminating the need for separate mechanical connectors. This substitution reduces signal path length and impedance discontinuities, thereby increasing data transfer speed and reducing electromagnetic interference.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the connector function directly into the PCB structure. The connection unit integrates contact pads, signal traces, and mechanical alignment features into a unified PCB design. By combining the data transmission path and mechanical connection into a single integrated structure, the system achieves faster data transfer and reduced electromagnetic interference while simplifying the overall assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If modules are connected using cables and connectors, then electrical connections are established, but connection complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule assembly speedVSAvoidconnection structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the connection system into modular PCB edge contacts that can be independently designed and manufactured. Each PCB includes standardized contact pads and alignment features at its edges, allowing modules to be connected in series without complex interconnecting cables. This segmentation enables rapid assembly while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection unit is designed with universal compatibility across different module types. The standardized PCB contact interface can accommodate various signal types and module configurations, eliminating the need for specialized connectors for each module pair. This universality simplifies the connection structure and accelerates assembly productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8961234B2PCB connection unit

Publication Date: 2015.02.24 UNITRONICS 1989 RG

AI summary

An electronic device comprising a base printed circuit board (PCB); a first edge card socket mounted on said base PCB, said socket having PCB contacts; and a PCB connection unit having PCB contacts thereon, said unit being slideably connectable to said first edge card socket and adapted to be slideably inserted into, and to make electrical contact with, a second edge card socket mounted on a second base PCB.