V-Grooved EMI Sealing Interface for RF Connector Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Increasing levels of background radio frequency (RF) radiation from devices such as cellular systems and computers pose interference risks, necessitating enhanced RF shielding, particularly on printed circuit boards (PCB) and RF input/output connectors to prevent disruption and radiation-induced interference.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector design featuring a 'V'-shaped grounding feature surrounding a void at the board end, extending beyond the rear plane, and a center conductor surrounded by an insulator, which creates a secure seal with the PCB using fasteners, effectively blocking RF signals without the need for additional shielding components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional RF shielding methods are used on PCB and connectors, then RF interference protection is provided, but additional shielding components and complex installation processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the grounding feature and EMI sealing function into a single integrated V-shaped structure at the connector board end. This merging eliminates the need for separate shielding components and simplifies installation, while maintaining effective RF interference protection through the continuous conductive path to ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The V-shaped grounding feature serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical grounding, creates EMI sealing against the PCB ground plane, and acts as a shielding structure. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while achieving comprehensive RF interference protection.
2Reliability
If conventional connector designs are used, then basic electrical connection is achieved, but RF leakage occurs and additional shielding materials are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the grounding feature into the third dimension by creating a V-shaped structure that protrudes beyond the rear plane of the connector board end. This dimensional extension allows the grounding feature to engage with the PCB ground plane and create an effective EMI seal, blocking RF leakage paths without compromising the basic electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The V-shaped grounding feature acts as an intermediary element between the connector body and the PCB ground plane. It creates a continuous conductive path and sealing interface that blocks RF leakage, while allowing the center conductor to maintain its electrical connection function without direct interference from external RF fields.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple connector designs are used, then manufacturing is easier, but EMI shielding effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connector into distinct functional zones: the center conductor for signal transmission, the insulator for electrical isolation, and the V-shaped grounding feature for EMI shielding and grounding. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs composite construction combining conductive materials for the center conductor and grounding feature, insulating materials for the insulator body, and dissimilar metal materials for the connector housing. This composite approach achieves effective EMI shielding while maintaining manufacturability through standard material joining techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector (10) has a body, a center conductor (55), and an insulator (75). The body has a receptacle end (30), a board end (25) having a rear plane (85) and a plurality of fastener holes for a plurality of fasteners (50), a void extending from the receptacle end to the board end, and a grounding feature (70) substantially surrounding the void at the board end, the grounding feature extending beyond the rear plane and being approximately in the shape of a “V” having a base which points away from the rear plane. The center conductor is in the void and extends from the receptacle end to beyond the rear plane of the board end. The insulator is in the void and substantially surrounds the center conductor in the void.