Socket Connector Latch Biasing for Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional card edge interfaces in computer systems are prone to failure due to shock and vibration, leading to dislodgment of memory modules and increased resistance at gold contact interfaces, as they do not provide a high reliability interface that limits module movement within the socket.
Innovation Solution
A socket connector design featuring a pivotably connected latch member and a biasing member, such as a wire spring, that applies a vertical force to inhibit movement of the card edge module within the socket, ensuring the latch remains closed even under vibration and preventing fretting of gold contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional latches and contact normal forces are used to hold modules in sockets, then the interface allows for easy installation and removal, but the interface fails under shock and vibration causing module dislodgment and contact fretting
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing dynamic adjustment. During installation, the latch can be opened to receive the module, then automatically closes to secure it. This dynamic capability enables both easy installation and reliable retention under vibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member automatically biases the latch member toward the closed position, providing self-securing functionality. When the module is inserted, the latch automatically engages and secures it without requiring additional fastening actions, while maintaining reliability under shock and vibration.
2Reliability
If latches are used to secure modules in sockets, then modules can be easily installed and removed, but under extreme vibration the latches may be jarred open allowing module dislodgment
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member pre-applies a force to keep the latch member in the closed position before any vibration occurs. This preliminary counteracting force prevents the latch from being jarred open during vibration, as the biasing force continuously opposes any opening tendency caused by external disturbances.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable connection allows the latch member to rotate smoothly between positions. This curved motion path enables the latch to maintain contact with the module edge while accommodating minor vibrations without disengaging, improving retention reliability under vibrational conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional card edge interfaces are used, then modules can be reconfigured and replaced, but the interfaces are not high reliability and experience fretting of gold contacts under vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The movable latch member provides adaptability by allowing the interface to transition between open (for reconfiguration) and closed (for reliable operation) states. This dynamic design maintains versatility while preventing contact fretting during normal operation through secure engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-securing latch mechanism automatically provides reliable contact engagement without requiring additional fastening steps, maintaining adaptability for easy module replacement while ensuring consistent contact pressure that prevents fretting during vibration.
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 solution effectively retains the card edge module, reducing the likelihood of interface failure by maintaining contact integrity and preventing module dislodgment, thus enhancing the reliability of the card edge interface.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing member is connected between the housing and the latch member. The biasing member biases the latch member toward the closed position.
Implementation Method 2
The biasing member is configured to apply a vertical force on the card edge module to inhibit movement of the card edge module in the slot.
Data Source
AI summary
A socket connector includes a housing extending along a longitudinal axis between opposed ends. The housing includes a mounting face configured to be received on the circuit board and a slot configured to receive the mating edge of the card edge module. A latch member is pivotably connected to the housing. The latch member is movable between an open position and a closed position. A biasing member is connected between the housing and the latch member. The biasing member biases the latch member toward the closed position.