Electromagnetic Shield Connector With Rigid Support Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetically shielded connector systems in high vibration environments, such as those found in automotive applications, face reduced electromagnetic shielding effectiveness due to deformation of sheet metal shields, which diminishes the normal spring force exerted by flexible contacts, leading to increased electromagnetic interference (EMI) susceptibility.
Innovation Solution
The proposed connector system includes a first electromagnetic shield with a flexible interface contact that projects from one end and contacts a second shield surrounded by a rigid supporting member, maintaining the normal spring force and preventing outward flexing, thereby enhancing the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flexible contacts are used to interconnect shields in separable connectors, then the connectors can be separated and reconnected, but the normal spring force exerted by the flexible contacts diminishes due to deformation of the sheet metal shields, reducing electromagnetic shielding effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the shield from a deformable sheet metal structure to a rigid or reinforced structure that maintains its shape and prevents deformation. This parameter change ensures that the flexible contacts maintain their normal spring force over repeated mating cycles, thereby preserving electromagnetic shielding effectiveness while retaining connector separability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates compliant members or cushioning elements that preemptively compensate for potential deformation of the shield. These elements absorb or distribute the mechanical stress before it can cause significant deformation to the sheet metal shield, thereby maintaining the normal spring force of the flexible contacts and preserving shielding effectiveness in advance of any potential failure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sheet metal shields are used in connectors, then electromagnetic shielding can be provided, but the shields deform under the normal spring force of flexible contacts in high vibration environments, diminishing shielding effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite structures combining sheet metal with reinforcing materials or hybrid constructions that integrate the electromagnetic shielding properties of conductive materials with the structural stability of rigid materials. This composite approach maintains shielding effectiveness while preventing deformation under vibration and contact pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the shield into multiple segments or sections that can independently accommodate stress without causing overall deformation. This segmentation allows the shield to maintain its electromagnetic shielding continuity while distributing mechanical stresses to prevent dimensional changes that would diminish shielding effectiveness.
3Reliability
If the normal spring force of flexible contacts is maintained in high vibration environments, then electromagnetic shielding effectiveness is preserved, but this requires additional structural support that increases connector complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the supporting function with existing connector components, such as integrating the rigid support structure into the connector housing or terminal assembly. This consolidation provides the necessary structural support to maintain flexible contact spring force while avoiding the addition of separate, complex support mechanisms, thereby preserving shielding effectiveness without significantly increasing overall connector complexity.
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
This configuration improves the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and reduces EMI performance by maintaining the normal spring force between interface contacts, even in high vibration environments, and prevents galvanic corrosion through compliant seals.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible interface contact is formed and configured to exert a normal spring force on the second electromagnetic shield
Implementation Method 2
The first electromagnetic shield longitudinally surrounding the first electrical terminal... The second electromagnetic shield longitudinally surrounding the second electrical terminal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2A
Figure 3
AI summary
An electromagnetically shielded connector system (10) includes a first and second connector (200). The first connector (100) further includes a first terminal and a first electromagnetic shield (106) surrounding the first terminal. The first shield (106) defines a flexible interface contact (112) projecting from an end of the first shield (106). The second connector (200) further includes a second terminal configured to mate with the first terminal and a second electromagnetic shield (210) surrounding the second terminal. The second shield (210) is configured to be electrically connected with the first shield (106) at least via the flexible interface contact (112). The second shield (210) is surrounded by a supporting member (222). At least a portion of an outer surface (238) of the second shield (210) is in intimate contact with the supporting member (222). The second shield (210) is configured to be disposed intermediate the interface contact (112) and the supporting member (222). The interface contact (112) is formed and configured to exert a normal spring force on the second shield (210).