U-Shaped PCB Plug-In Connector Layout for Reduced Assembly Height

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing printed circuit board arrangements face challenges in optimizing the use of installation space due to the mechanical and electrical properties of connectors, leading to inefficiencies in housing design and increased overall height.

Innovation Solution

A printed circuit board arrangement featuring a U-shaped or double-U-shaped connector with a secure attachment mechanism, allowing for reduced overall height by guiding one leg of the connector through a recess in the PCB, and incorporating a shielding plate and mounting arm for enhanced stability and electrical connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If conventional connectors are mounted on printed circuit boards, then electrical connection is achieved, but installation space is wasted and overall height increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation space utilizationVSAvoidoverall height of PCB assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is nested within the PCB structure by guiding one leg through a recess in the circuit board. This integration allows the connector to occupy space within the existing PCB volume rather than adding external volume, effectively reducing the overall height of the assembly while maintaining electrical connection functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design utilizes the recess dimension in the PCB to accommodate part of the connector structure. By transitioning from a surface-mounted configuration to one that extends into the recess, the solution optimizes space utilization in the vertical dimension and reduces the overall height profile of the assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Stability of the object's composition

If connectors are secured with traditional mounting methods, then mechanical stability is achieved, but space efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector stabilityVSAvoidspace efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting arm is merged with the connector body to form an integrated structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate mounting components and utilizes the recess in the PCB to provide both mechanical support and space efficiency. The integrated design achieves stability while optimizing the use of available space within the housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4238188B1Plug-in connector assembly
Publication Date: 2025.11.05 ROSENBERGER HOCHFREQUENZTECHNIK GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4238188B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4238188B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Plug-in connector (10) having an inner conductor (11), an insulating part (13) and an outer conductor (15), wherein the insulating part (13) is arranged between the inner conductor (11) and the outer conductor (15), wherein the inner conductor (11) and the insulating part (13) are of U-shaped design on account of having a first limb and a second limb as well as a web which connects the limbs, wherein the plug-in connector has a first end (17) and a second end (19) at which the plug-in connector (10) respectively forms a first interface and a second interface on account of the inner conductor (11) and in particular the outer conductor (15) being designed, at the first end (17) and the second end (19), to be connected to conductors (107, 108) of an object (110) for connection.