PCB Direct Connector Elastic Contact Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors require complementary male and female components, leading to complex manufacturing processes and high costs, and existing direct connectors are prone to damage and disconnection under impact and vibration.
Innovation Solution
A PCB direct connector with elastically contacting terminal members and a connector housing that securely fastens to the circuit board, allowing easy assembly and disassembly, featuring a retainer and substrate holding ribs for stability and a latch mechanism for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional male and female connectors are used, then connection functionality is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the male and female connector functions into a single integrated structure. The connector includes both contact portions (male function) and corresponding recesses with elastic elements (female function) in one piece, eliminating the need for separate male and female connectors and their complementary mounting processes
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector structure performs multiple functions: it provides male contact pins, female receiving holes with elastic contact, and self-alignment features all in one component. This multi-functional design replaces what previously required two separate connectors with different mounting requirements
2Ease of manufacture
If substrate edge connection-type connector is used to eliminate male connector, then component cost is reduced, but connector stability under impact and vibration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates elastic elements (springs) in advance within the connector structure that provide pre-compression force. These elastic elements cushion against external impact and vibration by absorbing shock energy and maintaining constant contact pressure, preventing connector separation before damage occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic contact portions use curved/elastic deformation rather than rigid straight contacts. The elastic elements can bend and deform to accommodate thermal expansion, vibration, and impact forces while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connection
3Device complexity
If substrate edge connection-type connector is used, then assembly process is simplified, but ease of assembly and disassembly of cables deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connector into separable modules: the main connector housing with contact portions, and detachable terminal members that hold cables. This segmentation allows cables to be easily assembled or disassembled by simply removing or inserting terminal members, while the main connector remains permanently mounted on the substrate
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
The solution reduces manufacturing costs and prevents connector separation under external impact and vibration, enabling convenient maintenance and management.
Implementation Method 1
terminal members having a pair of contact portions elastically contacting an upper surface and a lower surface of the circuit board
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a PCB direct connector. The PCB direct connector includes terminal members configured to have a pair of contact portions elastically contacting an upper surface and a lower surface of the circuit board and be electrically connected to conductive patterns disposed on at least one of the upper surface and the lower surface; and a connector housing configured to accommodate the terminal members therein and allow a connector connection portion formed at one side of an end of the circuit board to be fitted into and released from the connector housing.