Receptacle Connector Layout for Bidirectional Plug Insertion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing RJ45 receptacle connectors allow only single-direction insertion and removal, limiting convenience and functionality as demand increases for multifunctional connectors with bidirectional insertion capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A receptacle connector design featuring an insulating portion with a receiving space and mating space, along with a receptacle terminal module and circuit board, allowing for bidirectional insertion of a mating plug connector through symmetrically arranged first and second terminal modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the receptacle connector uses a single-direction terminal arrangement, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the insertion direction is limited to one direction only

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsertion direction flexibilityVSAvoidterminal module arrangement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by creating a symmetric terminal arrangement where first and second terminal modules are positioned on opposite sides of the mating space. This symmetric asymmetry allows the connector to accept plugs from either direction while maintaining a structured, manageable design that doesn't overly complicate the overall device architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The receptacle connector achieves universality by designing terminal modules that can mate with plug connectors inserted from either the front or rear direction. The first and second terminal modules are configured to both engage with mating plugs, enabling the single receptacle to serve multiple insertion directions, effectively making it multi-functional.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the receptacle connector is designed for bidirectional insertion, then the convenience of use is improved, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsertion convenienceVSAvoidinsulating portion structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insulating portion is segmented into distinct functional regions including a receiving space for the circuit board and terminal modules, and a mating space for receiving plug connectors. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized independently, managing structural complexity while enabling bidirectional insertion functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the spatial dimension by extending the mating space through the insulating portion to form a mating port that accepts plugs from either direction. This dimensional approach allows bidirectional functionality without requiring separate receptacles for each direction, managing complexity through spatial optimization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20250158332A1Receptacle connector with flexible insertion directions

Publication Date: 2025.05.15 DONGGUAN LEADER PRECISION IND CO LTD

AI summary

A receptacle connector includes an insulating portion, a receptacle terminal module mounted to the insulating portion, and a receptacle circuit board. The insulating portion includes a receiving space and a mating space in communication with the receiving space. The mating space extends through the insulating portion to form a mating port. The receptacle terminal module includes a first terminal module and a second terminal module. The first terminal module and the second terminal module are arranged on opposite sides of the mating space. The first terminal module and the second terminal module are electrically connected to the receptacle circuit board.