RF Connector Assembly Using Coaxial Cables for Lower-Cost Module Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of using flexible printed circuit boards for electrical connections between spaced-apart modules in electronic devices, especially when the modules are oriented differently, due to their higher unit price compared to general printed circuit boards.
Innovation Solution
A connector system utilizing RF contacts, coaxial cables, and a coupling part with a cover shell that allows for flexible electrical connections using coaxial cables, which are cheaper than flexible printed circuit boards, and improves the ease of operation by coupling multiple cables to RF contacts while shielding the rear surface to prevent electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flexible printed circuit boards are used for electrical connections between spaced-apart modules, then electrical connection is enabled, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components: a first connector body with first RF contacts, a second connector body with second RF contacts, and coaxial cables connecting them. This segmentation allows the use of cheaper coaxial cables instead of expensive flexible printed circuit boards while maintaining electrical connection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Coaxial cables serve as an intermediary element between the first and second modules, replacing the flexible printed circuit board. The connector bodies act as intermediaries to interface the coaxial cables with the modules, enabling cost-effective electrical connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modules are spaced apart and oriented differently, then design flexibility is improved, but the complexity of electrical connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design allows the first and second connector bodies to be positioned at different orientations and distances apart, with coaxial cables providing flexible connection paths. This dynamic configuration enables modules to be spaced apart and oriented differently without increasing connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Coaxial cables with flexible insulation layers replace rigid flexible printed circuit boards, providing similar flexibility for connecting spaced-apart modules with different orientations while using a different, more cost-effective technology.
3Ease of operation
If the rear surface of the cover shell is opened for cable insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but electromagnetic interference protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The opening for cable insertion is extracted as a necessary feature in the rear surface of the cover shell, accepting the trade-off of reduced EMI protection in exchange for ease of cable installation. The design prioritizes manufacturing and assembly simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover shell with an open rear surface represents a simpler, more cost-effective design compared to fully enclosed shielded structures, accepting limited EMI protection as a trade-off for ease of manufacture and assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure may comprise: a first RF contact for transmitting a radio frequency (RF) signal; a second RF contact disposed away from the first RF contact along a first axis direction; an insulating part to which the first RF contact and the second RF contact are coupled; a cover shell coupled to the insulating part; a first coaxial cable electrically connected to the first RF contact; a second coaxial cable located away from the first coaxial cable along the first axis direction and electrically connected to the second RF contact; and a coupling part for coupling the first coaxial cable and the second coaxial cable to the cover shell such that the first coaxial cable is connected to the first RF contact and the second coaxial cable is connected to the second RF contact.