Stackable Connector Shielding Member for EMI Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stackable connector assemblies face significant electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues from high-speed connectors, leading to signal instability and noise coupling between connectors, which are not effectively addressed by existing designs.
Innovation Solution
A stackable connector assembly with a shielding member made of thin metal or electro-deposited metal coating, grounded through a contact member to an electrically conductive shell or metal bracket, is introduced to reduce EMI by creating a shielding effect between the high-speed and low-speed connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stackable connector assembly with high-speed and low-speed connectors is configured without additional EMI shielding, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing cost is lowered, but electromagnetic interference from the high-speed connector couples to the low-speed connector causing signal instability
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding member is nested within the connector assembly structure, positioned between the high-speed and low-speed connectors. This internal nesting provides EMI shielding without adding external complexity, as the shielding function is integrated into the existing connector stack configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding member acts as an intermediary element between the high-speed and low-speed connectors, blocking electromagnetic interference from coupling between the two connectors while maintaining the electrical connection path through the ground contact
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional I/O shielding is used to cover the connectors, then electromagnetic radiation is shielded, but the shielding structure increases device complexity and manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding function is extracted from the traditional external I/O shielding structure and integrated directly into the connector assembly through a dedicated shielding member. This extraction allows the shielding to be positioned precisely where needed (between connectors) rather than requiring a comprehensive external shield
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing uniform EMI shielding across the entire I/O area, the shielding member is positioned locally only between the high-speed and low-speed connectors where electromagnetic coupling occurs. This localized approach reduces material usage and structural complexity while addressing the specific interference problem
3Ease of manufacture
If no EMI shielding is provided between connectors, then manufacturing cost and device complexity are reduced, but electromagnetic interference causes noise coupling and signal instability on the low-speed connector
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding member is constructed as a thin-walled structure that provides effective EMI shielding without adding significant mass or complexity. The thin-walled design reduces material costs and simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the electromagnetic shielding function
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding member is integrated into the connector assembly such that it is automatically positioned and grounded through the existing ground contact structure. This self-integrating design eliminates the need for separate shielding installation steps, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
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 reduces electromagnetic interference from high-speed connectors, enhancing signal stability and integrity between connectors while maintaining a cost-effective and manufacturable design.
Implementation Method 1
the shielding member is covered on the first connector and is disposed between the first connector and the second connector. Therefore, the electromagnetic interference from the first connector is reduced, and the signal stability of the two connectors of the stacked connector is increased
Data Source
AI summary
This invention discloses a stackable connector assembly, which includes a first connector, a second connector, a shielding member, a contact member, and a ground member. The second connector is placed above the first connector. The shielding member is covered on the first connector. The contact member is used for connecting the shielding member and the ground member. This structure can reduce the electromagnetic radiation from the first connector.