Plug Connector Resonance Control via Lossy Inserts
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed data transmission through electrical connectors faces challenges in maintaining signal integrity due to resonating electrical energy between ground conductors, leading to increased electromagnetic interference and crosstalk, which reduces throughput.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of resonance-control lossy inserts made from lossy materials into electrical connectors, specifically aligned with ground contacts, to absorb propagating electrical resonance and reduce unwanted noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If data transmission speed is increased and signal conductor density is increased, then communication system performance is improved, but electrical noise and resonance between ground conductors increases causing signal integrity degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies lossy material to ground conductors and cavities, converting the harmful resonant electrical energy into heat through resistive losses. The lossy material absorbs the resonance that would otherwise degrade signal integrity, transforming the problematic electromagnetic energy into a harmless thermal form that dissipates naturally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent selectively applies lossy material properties to specific locations where resonance occurs - namely on ground conductors and within cavities formed between them. This localized application of lossy characteristics targets the specific problem areas without affecting the overall signal transmission paths, maintaining high data rates while suppressing resonance locally.
2Productivity
If ground conductor spacing is decreased to increase signal density, then connector throughput is improved, but resonance between ground conductors increases causing return loss and crosstalk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies lossy material characteristics specifically to ground conductors and cavities, creating localized damping zones that suppress resonance without affecting the overall signal transmission paths. This allows tight spacing for high throughput while maintaining signal integrity through targeted resonance control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs lossy material with specific electromagnetic properties that combine conductive and dissipative characteristics. This composite material approach allows the ground structure to simultaneously provide electrical connectivity for high throughput and resonant energy absorption for reliable signal transmission.
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 use of lossy inserts effectively reduces resonant frequency noise spikes, enhancing electrical performance and maintaining signal integrity at high data rates by absorbing electrical resonance, thereby improving connector throughput and reducing return loss.
Implementation Method 1
The lossy inserts are manufactured from lossy material capable of absorbing electrical resonance propagating through the plug body
Data Source
AI summary
A plug connector includes a plug body having a terminating end terminated to an electrical component and a mating end mated with a mating electrical connector. The plug body has first and second outer sides. The plug body has pockets between the first and second outer sides. A plug shroud extends from the plug body at the terminating end that is configured to be coupled to the electrical component. A contact array is held by the plug body and includes signal and ground contacts. The signal and ground contacts are exposed along the first and second outer sides. At least some of the ground contacts are aligned with corresponding pockets. Resonance-control lossy inserts are provided in corresponding pockets adjacent corresponding ground contacts. The lossy inserts are manufactured from lossy material capable of absorbing electrical resonance propagating through the plug body.