USB Type-C Connector Signal Quality via Segmented Terminal Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
The miniaturization of USB Type-C connectors poses challenges in maintaining reliable signal transmission due to the degradation of the shielding effect as the distance between terminals shortens, requiring a solution for high-reliability manufacturing and stable signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
A USB Type-C male connector design incorporating a combination of SMD and DIP technologies, where the first terminal assembly uses SMD pins for data signals and the second terminal assembly uses DIP pins for data, control, and power signals, optimizing pin usage and signal paths to improve signal quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the connector is miniaturized to meet light-weight and slim device requirements, then the device size is reduced, but the shielding effect between terminals degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal assembly is divided into two separate assemblies: a first terminal assembly using SMD technology for data signals and a second terminal assembly using DIP technology for control and power signals. This segmentation allows each assembly to be optimized for its specific function, with the DIP assembly providing better shielding for sensitive control signals while the SMD assembly handles high-speed data signals with lower inductance.
Solution Approach 2:
Different mounting technologies are applied to different terminal assemblies based on their specific requirements. The first terminal assembly uses SMD technology with surface-mounted pins optimized for data signals, while the second terminal assembly uses DIP technology with through-hole pins optimized for control and power signals. This local differentiation of quality ensures each terminal assembly has the optimal characteristics for its intended purpose.
2Ease of operation
If two identical sets of connection terminals are provided for reversible connection, then the convenience for plug and unplug is improved, but the complexity of the connector structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
While the connector maintains physical symmetry for reversible connection, the internal terminal assignments are asymmetric. The first terminal assembly is designated for data signals and the second for control and power signals. This asymmetric functional assignment within a symmetric physical structure allows reversible connection while maintaining clear signal differentiation and reduced interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed so that when inserted in either orientation, the first terminal assembly always connects to data signal terminals and the second terminal assembly always connects to control and power signal terminals. This inversion-proof design ensures correct signal routing regardless of insertion direction, eliminating the need for additional orientation detection mechanisms.
3Length of stationary object
If the distance between terminals is shortened to reduce connector size, then the connector is more compact, but the shielding effect between terminals degrades
Solution Approach 1:
A ground piece is introduced as an intermediary element between the first terminal assembly and the second terminal assembly. This ground piece acts as a shielding barrier that electrically isolates the two assemblies, preventing signal interference even when the terminal spacing is reduced for miniaturization. The ground piece serves as a reference potential that blocks electromagnetic coupling between adjacent terminals.
Data Source
AI summary
A USB Type-C male connector includes a first terminal assembly including a plurality of first pins and a second terminal assembly including a plurality of second pins. The first pins of the first terminal assembly having an SMD structure are electrically connected to a substrate in the SMT process. The second pins of the second terminal assembly having a DIP structure are electrically connected to the substrate in the SMT process. More pins of the second terminal assembly are used for transmitting data signals, control signals and power signals, thereby improving the signal quality of the USB drive.