Retention Mechanism for Shielded Flex Cable EMI Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing EMI/RFI grounding mechanisms for internal cables in computing systems, such as those using conductive tape, are difficult to remove and often result in damage to connectors, making rework challenging and costly.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a grounding retention mechanism that includes actuators like screw-type, latch-type, and lever-type mechanisms to apply a retention force to the cable shield, ensuring reliable electrical contact between the cable shield and the substrate ground, using compressible conductive materials and spring regions for secure and rework-friendly connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conductive tape is used for EMI/RFI grounding, then EMI/RFI reduction is achieved, but cable removal becomes difficult and connector damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding mechanism is segmented into separate functional components: a compressible conductive material for EMI/RFI grounding and a retention mechanism (latch, screw, or lever) for mechanical cable retention. This segmentation allows the grounding function to be maintained while the retention function can be easily engaged and disengaged, solving the contradiction between effective grounding and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
A compressible conductive material serves as an intermediary between the cable shield and the ground connection. This intermediary material provides effective EMI/RFI shielding when compressed, but can be easily removed when the retention mechanism is disengaged, thus resolving the contradiction between grounding effectiveness and ease of cable removal.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conductive tape is used for grounding, then EMI/RFI reduction is achieved, but connector damage occurs during removal
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the grounding material from the retention function, the connector is protected from damage. The retention mechanism (latch, screw, or lever) provides controlled mechanical retention without the destructive peeling action of tape, while the compressible conductive material maintains grounding integrity throughout the cable's service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanism transitions from a static tape connection to a dynamic system where the latch, screw, or lever can be easily engaged and disengaged. This dynamic retention system maintains connector integrity during both installation and removal, eliminating the damage caused by tape removal while preserving EMI/RFI reduction.
3Reliability
If mechanical retention force is applied to cable shield, then reliable electrical contact is achieved, but cable removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism provides dynamic control over the mechanical retention force. When engaged, the latch, screw, or lever applies sufficient force to ensure reliable electrical contact between the compressible conductive material and the ground connection. When disengaged, the retention force is immediately released, allowing easy cable removal. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between contact reliability and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the retention force parameter dynamically through engagement and disengagement of the retention mechanism. During normal operation, high retention force ensures reliable electrical contact. During maintenance, the retention force parameter is reduced to zero through mechanism disengagement, enabling easy cable removal without compromising either reliability or ease of repair.
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 solution provides effective EMI/RFI reduction while allowing for easy removal and replacement of internal cables without damaging connectors, addressing the challenges of destructive reworking and reducing costs associated with connector replacement.
Implementation Method 1
employing a retention mechanism to cause the electrically conductive material to electrically connect the cable to the ground of the substrate by applying a force to the cable shield
Implementation Method 2
an electrically conductive material coupled to the substrate ground, and a grounding retention mechanism to cause the electrically conductive material to electrically connect the cable to the ground of the substrate
Implementation Method 3
using compressible conductive materials and spring regions for secure and rework-friendly connections
Data Source
AI summary
A retention apparatus for a shielded cable is described. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a substrate having a ground; a connector coupled to the substrate; a cable shielded with a conductive material and having an end connectable to the connector to electrically connect with the connector; an electrically conductive material coupled to the ground of the substrate; and a grounding retention mechanism to cause the electrically conductive material to electrically connect the cable to the ground of the substrate by applying a force to the cable shield.