PCB Retaining Element for Secure Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electrical connector modules for portable electronic devices, such as ultrabooks, have complex assembly processes for movable elements, which complicates the assembly and does not meet the requirements of ease and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector module with a retaining element comprising support arms, flexible connecting arms, and an engaging seat integrated with the circuit board and casing, allowing for easy assembly and secure plugging of the connector plug, while maintaining the device's slim design and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a movable element is mounted on the bottom wall to secure the connector plug, then the connector plug can be stably secured, but the assembly process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element is integrated with the circuit board as a single unit, merging two previously separate components (retaining element and circuit board) into one. This integration eliminates the need for separate assembly steps while maintaining the securing function, thus reducing assembly complexity without compromising connector plug stability
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board is designed to serve dual functions: its original electrical connection function and the new function of mounting the retaining element. By making the circuit board multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for a separate bottom wall structure, simplifying the overall assembly while maintaining secure connector plug retention
2Shape
If the engaging seat covers the opening in the bottom casing wall, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging seat is integrated with the retaining element, which itself is integrated with the circuit board. This multi-level integration merges multiple structural components into one, allowing the engaging seat to cover the opening for aesthetic purposes without requiring separate structural elements, thus maintaining simplicity while improving appearance
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 simplifies the assembly process of the connector module, ensures secure electrical connection, and maintains the device's slim and aesthetically pleasing design by using a retaining element that can be easily mounted on the circuit board, facilitating easy plugging and preventing the connector plug from being pulled out.
Implementation Method 1
each of the flexible connecting arms stores a restoring force to urge the engaging seat to abut against the connector plug
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to an electrical connector module and an electronic device including the same. The electrical connector module includes: a circuit board formed with two lateral notches and a main notch interposed therebetween; an electrical connector mounted on the circuit board and including an insulating housing; and a retaining element including: two support arms respectively formed on the circuit board relative to the lateral notches; two flexible connecting arms respectively extending from the support arms through the lateral notches; and an engaging seat connected between the flexible connecting arms and suspended under the main notch so as to cooperate with the insulating housing to define a plugging space.