PCB Edge Connector Assembly for Low-Profile Shielded Multi-Conductor Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing edge connectors for printed circuit boards are limited in connecting multiple conductors simultaneously, prone to damaging conductor tracks during connection/disconnection, and are complex to assemble, especially in SMT processes, with inadequate shielding against electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A two-part edge connector design with a conductive first housing part and non-conductive second housing part, featuring a recess for conductors with dielectric insulation and a coaxial outer conductor, allowing for efficient space use, reduced passive intermodulation, and simplified automated assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a conventional coaxial plug connector is used for edge connection, then shielding against electromagnetic fields is achieved, but only one conductor can be connected simultaneously and the height is large
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple independent connection regions, each capable of connecting a conductor. The housing contains multiple conductors arranged in parallel, with each conductor having its own contact path to the housing, enabling simultaneous connection of multiple conductors while maintaining a compact structure
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a three-dimensional coaxial structure to a predominantly two-dimensional planar structure. Conductors are arranged in parallel within the housing plane, with contacts made at the edge of the printed circuit board, significantly reducing the height requirement while maintaining shielding effectiveness
2Reliability
If direct contact between conductor tracks and plug connector is made, then electrical connection is established, but conductor tracks are damaged during repeated detaching and re-establishment
Solution Approach 1:
The housing acts as an intermediary component between the conductors and the printed circuit board. Conductors make contact with the housing rather than directly with the conductor tracks on the PCB, allowing the housing to absorb mechanical stress during connection and disconnection, thereby protecting the fragile conductor tracks from damage
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is pre-assembled with conductors and contacts before attachment to the printed circuit board. This preliminary assembly ensures proper alignment and reduces the mechanical stress during the final attachment process, preventing damage to the conductor tracks on the PCB
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional edge connector assembly is used, then electrical connection is achieved, but assembly is complex and can be attached only partially in SMT process
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple components (housing, conductors, contacts, and shielding elements) are merged into a single pre-assembled unit. This integrated structure can be attached to the printed circuit board as one component during the SMT process, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps and enabling full automation
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for conductors, establishes electrical connections, provides electromagnetic shielding, and acts as a mounting structure for the entire assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the assembly process
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
Enables simultaneous connection of multiple conductors with minimal height, effective shielding, and cost-effective, automated production, reducing passive intermodulation and protecting against electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
the signals are transmitted using coaxial cables that are shielded from electrical and/or electromagnetic fields by an outer conductor that surrounds the signal-carrying conductor
Implementation Method 2
the conductor is held in the recess in an electrically insulated manner
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an edge connector (1) for a printed circuit board (50), comprising an at least two-part housing (10) with a first housing part (20) and a second housing part (30), wherein the first housing part (20) has a recess (25) in which at least one conductor (15) is arranged, said at least one conductor (15) having a first limb (16) with a first end (17) and a second limb (18) with a second end (19), wherein the housing (10) comprises a first region (12) in a first plane (11), in which each first end (17) protrudes out of the housing (10) in an assembly direction (5) in order to connect to a conductor track (54) of the printed circuit board (50), and the housing (10) has a second region (14) in a second plane (13) which is arranged parallel and at a distance to the first plane (11) in the assembly direction (5), wherein the second limb (18) is arranged at an angle of 90° to the first limb (16), and the second limb (18) protrudes into a mating plug recess (35) in the second housing part (30) in a plug-in direction (6). The present invention additionally relates to a printed circuit board assembly (2) with at least one such edge connector.