WO2005048409A1 - Land grid array socket connector - Google Patents

Land grid array socket connector Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2005048409A1
WO2005048409A1 PCT/US2004/037235 US2004037235W WO2005048409A1 WO 2005048409 A1 WO2005048409 A1 WO 2005048409A1 US 2004037235 W US2004037235 W US 2004037235W WO 2005048409 A1 WO2005048409 A1 WO 2005048409A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
carrier
terminal
aperture
connector
connecting portion
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2004/037235
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Kathleen A. Sweeney
Samuel C. Ramey
Thomas B. Schoder
Lily T. C. Chang
Original Assignee
Molex Incorporated
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Molex Incorporated filed Critical Molex Incorporated
Publication of WO2005048409A1 publication Critical patent/WO2005048409A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/02—Contact members
    • H01R13/22—Contacts for co-operating by abutting
    • H01R13/24—Contacts for co-operating by abutting resilient; resiliently-mounted
    • H01R13/2435—Contacts for co-operating by abutting resilient; resiliently-mounted with opposite contact points, e.g. C beam
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/40—Securing contact members in or to a base or case; Insulating of contact members
    • H01R13/405—Securing in non-demountable manner, e.g. moulding, riveting
    • H01R13/415—Securing in non-demountable manner, e.g. moulding, riveting by permanent deformation of contact member
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
    • H01R43/20—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for assembling or disassembling contact members with insulating base, case or sleeve
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R12/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, specially adapted for printed circuits, e.g. printed circuit boards [PCB], flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures, e.g. terminal strips, terminal blocks; Coupling devices specially adapted for printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures; Terminals specially adapted for contact with, or insertion into, printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures
    • H01R12/70—Coupling devices
    • H01R12/71—Coupling devices for rigid printing circuits or like structures
    • H01R12/712—Coupling devices for rigid printing circuits or like structures co-operating with the surface of the printed circuit or with a coupling device exclusively provided on the surface of the printed circuit
    • H01R12/714—Coupling devices for rigid printing circuits or like structures co-operating with the surface of the printed circuit or with a coupling device exclusively provided on the surface of the printed circuit with contacts abutting directly the printed circuit; Button contacts therefore provided on the printed circuit

Definitions

  • Socket connectors are commonly used in a land grid array (LGA) for use in an electronic device, such as a computer server or a router.
  • the socket connector provides a connection between a chip package or other appropriate electronic component and a printed circuit board or other appropriate electronic component. Terminals in the socket connector provide for a secure connection to the electronic components.
  • LGA land grid array
  • Terminals in the socket connector provide for a secure connection to the electronic components.
  • a socket connector which can provide for a high array count, while being inexpensive to manufacture.
  • the inductance of the socket connector must be low.
  • a general object of the present invention is to provide a socket connector for a land grid array that is low cost to form and easily manufactured.
  • An object of the of the present invention is to provide a socket connector which has a small pitch such that a low inductance is provided.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a socket connector which has a low profile.
  • Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a socket connector which has terminals that can be provided in an array, as a single terminal or as a strip.
  • the present invention discloses a connector which can be used in a land grid array.
  • the connector includes a carrier and at least one terminal attached thereto.
  • the carrier is formed of a flexible, dielectric material having first and second sides, and having at least one aperture provided therethrough.
  • Each terminal is conductive and is mounted through a respective aperture in the carrier.
  • Each terminal includes a connecting portion which extends through the aperture, a first beam which extends from the connecting portion and provided on the first side of the carrier and a second beam extending from the connecting portion and provided on the second side of the carrier. The first and second beams are angled relative to the carrier.
  • Each terminal is crimped to the carrier thereby forming a crimped joint between the terminal and the carrier.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a terminal prior to assembly to a carrier
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a terminal prior to assembly to a carrier
  • FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a socket connector which incorporates features of the present invention shown with electronic components in side elevation
  • FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a carrier which has one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto;
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a terminal prior to assembly to a carrier
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a terminal prior to assembly to a carrier
  • FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a socket connector which incorporates features of the present invention shown with electronic components in side elevation
  • FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a carrier which has one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto;
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view, shown in perspective, of the carrier shown in FIG. 4 which has a plurality of terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto, some of the terminals being shown in cross-section
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the carrier shown in FIG. 5 and one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto shown in side elevation
  • FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view, shown in perspective, of the carrier shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with an alternate embodiment, which has a plurality of terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto, some of the terminals being shown in cross-section
  • FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view of the carrier shown in FIG. 5a and one of the terminals shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 7 is a top elevational view of the carrier and terminals shown in an array
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a carrier which has one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the carrier shown in FIG. 8 and one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto shown in side elevation
  • FIG. 10 is a top elevational view of an array of terminals, the terminals being formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1
  • FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of an strip of terminals, the terminals being formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 12 is a top elevational view of the terminals formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 shown attached to the carrier;
  • FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an array of terminals formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 attached to a carrier and surrounded by a framework;
  • FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an array of terminals formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 attached to a carrier and including coverlays provided on opposite sides of the carrier;
  • FIG. 15 is an alternate embodiment of the terminal formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.
  • the present invention provides a socket connector 20 for a land grid array (LGA) for use in an electronic device, such as a computer server or a router.
  • the socket connector 20 includes a carrier 22; 24 onto which at least one terminal 26; 28 is provided.
  • the carrier 22; 24 is formed of a flexible sheet of dielectric material, such as plastic or a film.
  • a first embodiment of the carrier 22 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.
  • a second embodiment of the carrier 24 is shown in FIG. 8.
  • the first embodiment of the carrier 24 has a first side 30 and a second side 32 and includes a plurality of spaced apart apertures 34 provided therethrough in a predetermined pattern.
  • the second embodiment of the carrier 24 has a first side 36 and a second side 38 and includes a plurality of pairs of spaced apart apertures 40a, 40b provided therethrough in a predetermined pattern.
  • the apertures can be a variety of shapes, including generally rectangular, "U" shaped, or "H" shaped to facilitate assembly.
  • Each terminal 26, 28 is formed from a single, integrally formed member of a conductive material. The terminal 26, 28 may be stamped out of a sheet material and formed into its predetermined shape as shown in FIGS.
  • a first embodiment of the terminal 26 is a dual beam terminal 26 and a second embodiment of the terminal 28 is a single beam te ⁇ ninal 28. Either terminal 26; 28 can be used with either carrier 24; 26. Attention is invited to FIG. 1 which illustrates the dual beam terminal 26.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 includes a first beam 42 which connects with a second beam 44 by a connecting portion 46.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 has a predetermined maximum width and a predetermined maximum thickness.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 may have a uniform width and a uniform thickness. As shown in the drawings, the maximum width is defined at the connecting portion 46, but the maximum width may be defined by either beam 42, 44.
  • the connecting portion 46 can be generally rectangular or partially rounded and has a predetermined height, width and thickness.
  • the connecting portion 46 defines a first end and a second, opposite end.
  • the first beam 42 is formed from a base 48 and a pair of fingers 50a, 50b that extend therefrom.
  • Each finger 50a, 50b has an end fixed to the base 48 and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free.
  • the free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings.
  • the fingers 50a, 50b are spaced apart from each other on the base 48 such that a slot 52 is formed between the fingers 50a, 50b.
  • the fingers 50a, 50b are angled relative to the base 48 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the fingers 50a, 50b are angled outwardly and upwardly from the base 48.
  • the base 48 is generally rectangular or is partially rounded and extends substantially perpendicularly from the first end of the connecting portion 46.
  • the base 48 and the connecting portion 48 may have the same width.
  • the combined width of the fingers 50a, 50b and the slot 52 may be greater than (which would then define the maximum width), less than or equal to the width of the base 48 and/or the connecting portion 46.
  • the fingers 50a, 50b are small and can be on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid.
  • the second beam 44 is formed from a base 54 and a pair of fingers 56a, 56b that extend therefrom.
  • Each finger 56a, 56b has an end fixed to the base and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free.
  • the free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings.
  • the fingers 56a, 56b are spaced apart from each other on the base 54 such that a slot 58 is formed between the fingers 56a, 56b.
  • the fingers 56a, 56b are angled relative to the base 54 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the fingers 56a, 56b are angled outwardly and downwardly from the base 54.
  • the base 54 is generally rectangular or partially rounded and extends substantially perpendicularly from the second end of the connecting portion 46.
  • a generally "V" shape is formed by the first beam 42, the connecting portion 46 and the second beam 44.
  • the base 54 and the connecting portion 46 may have the same width.
  • the combined width of the fingers 56a, 56b and the slot 58 may be greater than (which would then define the maximum width), less than or equal to the width of the base 54 and/or the connecting portion 46.
  • the fingers 56a, 56b are small and can be on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid.
  • the area of the connecting portion 46 between the first and second beams 42, 44 defines a predetermined height. Attention is now invited to FIG. 2 which illustrates the single beam terminal 28.
  • the single beam terminal 28 includes a first beam 60 which connects with a second beam 62 by a connecting portion 64.
  • the single beam terminal 28 has a predetermined maximum width and a predetermined maximum thickness.
  • the terminal 28 may have a uniform width and a uniform thickness along the terminal 28.
  • the maximum width is defined at the connecting portion 64, but the maximum width may be defined by either beam 60, 62.
  • the maximum thickness is also defined at the connecting portion 64, but the maximum thickness may be defined by either beam 60, 62.
  • the connecting portion 64 is generally rectangular or slightly rounded and has a predetermined height, width and thickness.
  • the connecting portion 64 defines a first end and a second, opposite end.
  • the first beam 60 is formed from a base 66 and a finger 68 that extends therefrom.
  • the finger 68 has an end fixed to the base 66 and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free. The free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings.
  • the finger 68 is provided generally at the centerpoint of the base 66.
  • the finger 68 is angled relative to the base 66 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the finger 68 is angled outwardly and upwardly from the base 66.
  • the base 66 is generally triangular and extends substantially perpendicularly from the first end of the connecting portion 64.
  • the base 66 and the connecting portion 64 may have the same width.
  • the finger 68 is small and is spaced on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid.
  • the second beam 62 is formed from a base 70 and a finger 72 that extends therefrom.
  • the finger 72 has an end fixed to the base 70 and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free. The free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings.
  • the finger 70 is angled relative to the base 72 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the finger 70 is angled outwardly and downwardly from the base 72.
  • the base 72 is generally triangular and extends substantially perpendicularly from the second end of the connecting portion 64.
  • a generally "V" shape is formed by the first beam 60, the connecting portion 64 and the second beam 62.
  • the base 70 and the connecting portion 64 may have the same width.
  • the finger 72 is small and is spaced on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid.
  • the area of the connecting portion 64 between the first and second beams 60, 62 defines a predetermined height.
  • Each aperture 34 has a width W which is slightly greater than the maximum width of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28, a height H approximately equal to the height defined by the area of the connecting portion 46, 64 between the bases 48, 54; 66, 70, and a thickness T which is larger than the maximum thickness of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28.
  • Assembly of the dual beam terminal 26 with the carrier 22 is now described.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 1 prior to assembly with the carrier 22.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 32.
  • the aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein.
  • the first beam 42 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22.
  • a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 22.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint.
  • the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 42, which will not be inserted through the carrier 22, has been formed.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the flat beam, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 32.
  • the aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein.
  • the first beam 42 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art.
  • a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 22.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint.
  • the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array.
  • the beams 42, 44 are small and have a small pitch, a low inductance is provided by the socket connector 20.
  • the use of the carrier 22 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20.
  • the socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. Assembly of the single beam terminal 28 with the carrier 22 is described. In a first embodiment, the single beam terminal 28 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 32.
  • the aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein.
  • the first beam 60 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22.
  • a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 22.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint.
  • the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 60, which will not be inserted through the carrier 22, has been formed.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the flat beam, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 32.
  • the aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein.
  • the first beam 60 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art.
  • a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 22.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint.
  • the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array.
  • the beams 60, 62 are small and have a small pitch, a low inductance is provided by the socket connector 20.
  • the use of the carrier 22 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20.
  • the socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. Attention is now invited to the second embodiment of the carrier 24 which is best illustrated in FIG. 8.
  • the apertures 40a, 40b in each pair are defined by a first aperture 40a and a second aperture 40b and are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.
  • Each first aperture 40a has a width W which is slightly greater than the maximum width of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28, a height H' which is approximately equal to the height defined by the area of the connecting portion 46; 64 between the bases 48, 54; 66, 70, and a thickness T' which is larger than the maximum thickness of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28.
  • the second aperture 40a has a thickness T" and a width W" which is substantially equal to the thickness and the width of either terminal 26, 28. Assembly of the dual beam terminal 26 with the carrier 24 is described.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 1 prior to assembly with the carrier 24.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 40a.
  • the aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein.
  • the second aperture 40b is positioned between the joints formed between the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b and the bases 48; 54.
  • the first beam 42 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24.
  • a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 24.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 42, which will not be inserted through the carrier 24, has been formed.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 24 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 40a.
  • the aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein.
  • the second aperture 40b is between the joints formed between the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b and the bases 48; 54.
  • the first beam 42 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24.
  • the dual beam terminal 26 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art. Thereafter, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 24.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint.
  • the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween.
  • a portion of the bases 48, 54 enter into the second aperture 40b and as a result, stress on the carrier 24 which is caused by the compression of the material of the carrier 24 between the bases 48, 54 is relieved (thereby minimizing any wrinkling of the carrier which otherwise may occur). This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array.
  • the socket connector 20 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20.
  • the socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. Assembly of the single beam terminal 28 with the carrier 24 is described. In a first embodiment, the single beam terminal 28 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 2 prior to assembly with the carrier 24. The single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 24 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 40a.
  • the aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein.
  • the first beam 60 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint.
  • the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 60, which will not be inserted through the carrier 24, has been formed.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 24 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 40a.
  • the aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein.
  • the first beam 60 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24.
  • the outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24.
  • the single beam terminal 28 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art. Thereafter, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 24.
  • the crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20.
  • the crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array.
  • the socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. As shown in FIG. 3, the first beam 42, 60 of the terminal 26, 28 is suited for engagement with a chip package or other appropriate electronic component 74 and the second beam 44, 62 of the terminal 26, 28 is suited for engagement with a printed circuit board or other appropriate electronic component 76.
  • the elongation and the angling of the beams 42, 44; 60, 62 allows for the flexure of the beams 42, 44; 60, 62 to provide for a secure connection to the electronic components 74, 76.
  • the provision of the dual fingers 50a, 50b, 56a, 56b in the dual beam terminal 26 provides for a redundancy for the electrical connection to the electronic components 74, 76 in the even that one of the fingers fails.
  • the dual beam terminals 26 can be inserted individually into the carrier 22, 24 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 8, inserted as an array 78 as shown in FIG. 10 into the carrier 22, 24, or inserted as a strip 80 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 into the carrier 22, 24.
  • the framework 82, 84 which mates the dual beam terminals 26 together are removed after assembly by suitable means, such as by cutting the framework 82, 84 away or etching, to remove the electrical connection between the dual beam terminals 26.
  • the single beam terminals 28 can be inserted into the carrier 22, 24 in the same manner.
  • a stiffening framework 86 can be provided around the perimeter of the carrier as shown for example in FIG. 13.
  • the stiffening framework 86 can be made of plastic or the like. As shown in FIG.
  • a coverlay 88 can be provided on the exposed surfaces 30, 32; 36, 38 of the carrier 22, 24 between the terminals 26 to prevent the electrical engagement of adjacent beams when the beams are deflected upon engagement with the electrical components 74, 76.
  • the coverlay 88 is formed from a dielectric material and is secured to the exposed surfaces 30, 32; 36, 38 of the carrier 22, 24 by suitable means, such as adhesive.
  • the coverlay 88 extends outwardly from the surfaces 30, 32; 36, 38 of the carrier 22, 24 a predetermined distance and is engaged by the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b when the terminals 26, 28 are in the fully deflected condition such that the coverlays 88 prevent the engagement of a finger or fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b with an adjacent terminal 26 when fully deflected condition.
  • a dielectric material can be dispensed onto portions of the exposed surfaces of the carrier 22, 24 to perform the same function.
  • the coverlay 88 can be a conformal coating, or a solder mask.
  • the coverlay 88 can also be used with the single beam terminal 28.
  • a solder ball 90 can be provided on the end of one of the beams, for example beam 44 to provide for a ball grid array attachment to the printed circuit board 72.
  • the beam 44 preferably includes a section 92 which is angled to the remainder of the fingers 56a, 56b such that it is parallel to the printed circuit board 92 for attachment of the solder ball 90 thereto.
  • the solder ball 90 can be attached to the single beam terminal 28 in a like manner.
  • the solder ball 90 can be attached to a non-flexible portion (not shown) of the single beam terminal 28 or the dual beam terminal 26. Electrical traces (not shown) may be provided on the carrier 22, 24 between desired ones of the terminals 26; 28 to electrically connect same.
  • the carrier 22, 24 is generally planar.
  • the first side 30 of the carrier 22 may include an inclined stopper 30a associated with each aperture 34.
  • the stopper 30a is provided at a predetermined distance from the aperture 34 such that when the terminal 26 is inserted into the carrier 22, the stopper 30a is proximate to the first beam 44.
  • the stopper 30a acts to prevent over-travel of the fingers 50a, 50b.
  • the stopper 30a includes an inclined portion 30b that is inclined at the same angle as the fingers 50a, 50b of the beam 44 and the width of the stopper 30a is the same as the width W of the fingers 50a, 50b.
  • Stoppers may be provided on the second side 32 of the carrier 22. Stoppers can be used with the second embodiment of the terminal 28 and with the second embodiment of the carrier 24. While preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown and described, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Abstract

A connector, which can be used in a land grid array, includes a dielectric carrier (22) and at least one conductive terminal (26) attached thereto. Each terminal is mounted through a respective aperture (34) in the carrier. Each terminal includes a connecting portion which extends through the aperture, a first beam which extends from the connecting portion and provided on a first side (30) of the carrier and a second beam extending from the connecting portion and provided on a second side (32) of the carrier. The first and second beams are angled relative to the carrier. Each terminal is crimped to the carrier thereby forming a crimped joint between the terminal (26) and the carrier (22).

Description

LAND GRTD ARRAY SOCKET CONNECTOR
Background of the Invention; Socket connectors are commonly used in a land grid array (LGA) for use in an electronic device, such as a computer server or a router. The socket connector provides a connection between a chip package or other appropriate electronic component and a printed circuit board or other appropriate electronic component. Terminals in the socket connector provide for a secure connection to the electronic components. As electronic devices become smaller, more and more connections for passing signals must be provided in a smaller space. There is a need for a socket connector which can provide for a high array count, while being inexpensive to manufacture. In addition, the inductance of the socket connector must be low.
Objects and Summary of the Invention: A general object of the present invention is to provide a socket connector for a land grid array that is low cost to form and easily manufactured. An object of the of the present invention is to provide a socket connector which has a small pitch such that a low inductance is provided. Another object of the present invention is to provide a socket connector which has a low profile. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a socket connector which has terminals that can be provided in an array, as a single terminal or as a strip. Briefly, and in accordance with the foregoing, the present invention discloses a connector which can be used in a land grid array. The connector includes a carrier and at least one terminal attached thereto. The carrier is formed of a flexible, dielectric material having first and second sides, and having at least one aperture provided therethrough. Each terminal is conductive and is mounted through a respective aperture in the carrier. Each terminal includes a connecting portion which extends through the aperture, a first beam which extends from the connecting portion and provided on the first side of the carrier and a second beam extending from the connecting portion and provided on the second side of the carrier. The first and second beams are angled relative to the carrier. Each terminal is crimped to the carrier thereby forming a crimped joint between the terminal and the carrier. Brief Description of the Drawings: The organization and manner of the structure and operation of the invention, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify like elements in which: FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a terminal prior to assembly to a carrier; FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a terminal prior to assembly to a carrier; FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a socket connector which incorporates features of the present invention shown with electronic components in side elevation; FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a carrier which has one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto; FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view, shown in perspective, of the carrier shown in FIG. 4 which has a plurality of terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto, some of the terminals being shown in cross-section; FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the carrier shown in FIG. 5 and one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto shown in side elevation; FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view, shown in perspective, of the carrier shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with an alternate embodiment, which has a plurality of terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto, some of the terminals being shown in cross-section; FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view of the carrier shown in FIG. 5a and one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto shown in side elevation; FIG. 7 is a top elevational view of the carrier and terminals shown in an array; FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a carrier which has one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto; FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the carrier shown in FIG. 8 and one of the terminals shown in FIG. 1 attached thereto shown in side elevation; FIG. 10 is a top elevational view of an array of terminals, the terminals being formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of an strip of terminals, the terminals being formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 12 is a top elevational view of the terminals formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 shown attached to the carrier; FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an array of terminals formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 attached to a carrier and surrounded by a framework; FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an array of terminals formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 attached to a carrier and including coverlays provided on opposite sides of the carrier; and FIG. 15 is an alternate embodiment of the terminal formed in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.
Detailed Description of the Illustrated Embodiments: While the invention may be susceptible to embodiment in different forms, there is shown in the drawings, and herein will be described in detail, a specific embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to that as illustrated and described herein. The present invention provides a socket connector 20 for a land grid array (LGA) for use in an electronic device, such as a computer server or a router. The socket connector 20 includes a carrier 22; 24 onto which at least one terminal 26; 28 is provided. The carrier 22; 24 is formed of a flexible sheet of dielectric material, such as plastic or a film. A first embodiment of the carrier 22 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. A second embodiment of the carrier 24 is shown in FIG. 8. The first embodiment of the carrier 24 has a first side 30 and a second side 32 and includes a plurality of spaced apart apertures 34 provided therethrough in a predetermined pattern. The second embodiment of the carrier 24 has a first side 36 and a second side 38 and includes a plurality of pairs of spaced apart apertures 40a, 40b provided therethrough in a predetermined pattern. The apertures can be a variety of shapes, including generally rectangular, "U" shaped, or "H" shaped to facilitate assembly. Each terminal 26, 28 is formed from a single, integrally formed member of a conductive material. The terminal 26, 28 may be stamped out of a sheet material and formed into its predetermined shape as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 (i.e., the shape prior to assembly with the carrier 22; 24) by suitable means known in the art. A first embodiment of the terminal 26 is a dual beam terminal 26 and a second embodiment of the terminal 28 is a single beam teπninal 28. Either terminal 26; 28 can be used with either carrier 24; 26. Attention is invited to FIG. 1 which illustrates the dual beam terminal 26. The dual beam terminal 26 includes a first beam 42 which connects with a second beam 44 by a connecting portion 46. The dual beam terminal 26 has a predetermined maximum width and a predetermined maximum thickness. The dual beam terminal 26 may have a uniform width and a uniform thickness. As shown in the drawings, the maximum width is defined at the connecting portion 46, but the maximum width may be defined by either beam 42, 44. As shown in the drawings, the maximum thickness is also defined at the connecting portion 46, but the maximum thickness may be defined by either beam 42, 44. The connecting portion 46 can be generally rectangular or partially rounded and has a predetermined height, width and thickness. The connecting portion 46 defines a first end and a second, opposite end. The first beam 42 is formed from a base 48 and a pair of fingers 50a, 50b that extend therefrom. Each finger 50a, 50b has an end fixed to the base 48 and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free. The free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings. The fingers 50a, 50b are spaced apart from each other on the base 48 such that a slot 52 is formed between the fingers 50a, 50b. The fingers 50a, 50b are angled relative to the base 48 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the fingers 50a, 50b are angled outwardly and upwardly from the base 48. The base 48 is generally rectangular or is partially rounded and extends substantially perpendicularly from the first end of the connecting portion 46. The base 48 and the connecting portion 48 may have the same width. The combined width of the fingers 50a, 50b and the slot 52 may be greater than (which would then define the maximum width), less than or equal to the width of the base 48 and/or the connecting portion 46. The fingers 50a, 50b are small and can be on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid. The second beam 44 is formed from a base 54 and a pair of fingers 56a, 56b that extend therefrom. Each finger 56a, 56b has an end fixed to the base and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free. The free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings. The fingers 56a, 56b are spaced apart from each other on the base 54 such that a slot 58 is formed between the fingers 56a, 56b. The fingers 56a, 56b are angled relative to the base 54 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the fingers 56a, 56b are angled outwardly and downwardly from the base 54. The base 54 is generally rectangular or partially rounded and extends substantially perpendicularly from the second end of the connecting portion 46. A generally "V" shape is formed by the first beam 42, the connecting portion 46 and the second beam 44. The base 54 and the connecting portion 46 may have the same width. The combined width of the fingers 56a, 56b and the slot 58 may be greater than (which would then define the maximum width), less than or equal to the width of the base 54 and/or the connecting portion 46. The fingers 56a, 56b are small and can be on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid. The area of the connecting portion 46 between the first and second beams 42, 44 defines a predetermined height. Attention is now invited to FIG. 2 which illustrates the single beam terminal 28. The single beam terminal 28 includes a first beam 60 which connects with a second beam 62 by a connecting portion 64. The single beam terminal 28 has a predetermined maximum width and a predetermined maximum thickness. The terminal 28 may have a uniform width and a uniform thickness along the terminal 28. As shown in the drawings, the maximum width is defined at the connecting portion 64, but the maximum width may be defined by either beam 60, 62. As shown in the drawings, the maximum thickness is also defined at the connecting portion 64, but the maximum thickness may be defined by either beam 60, 62. The connecting portion 64 is generally rectangular or slightly rounded and has a predetermined height, width and thickness. The connecting portion 64 defines a first end and a second, opposite end. The first beam 60 is formed from a base 66 and a finger 68 that extends therefrom. The finger 68 has an end fixed to the base 66 and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free. The free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings. The finger 68 is provided generally at the centerpoint of the base 66. The finger 68 is angled relative to the base 66 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the finger 68 is angled outwardly and upwardly from the base 66. The base 66 is generally triangular and extends substantially perpendicularly from the first end of the connecting portion 64. The base 66 and the connecting portion 64 may have the same width. The finger 68 is small and is spaced on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid. The second beam 62 is formed from a base 70 and a finger 72 that extends therefrom.
The finger 72 has an end fixed to the base 70 and extends therefrom such that the opposite end is free. The free end may be rounded as shown in the drawings. The finger 70 is angled relative to the base 72 at a predetermined angle. As shown in the drawings, the finger 70 is angled outwardly and downwardly from the base 72. The base 72 is generally triangular and extends substantially perpendicularly from the second end of the connecting portion 64. A generally "V" shape is formed by the first beam 60, the connecting portion 64 and the second beam 62. The base 70 and the connecting portion 64 may have the same width. The finger 72 is small and is spaced on a small pitch, for example 1mm grid. The area of the connecting portion 64 between the first and second beams 60, 62 defines a predetermined height. Attention is now invited to the first embodiment of the carrier 22 which is best illustrated in FIG. 4. Each aperture 34 has a width W which is slightly greater than the maximum width of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28, a height H approximately equal to the height defined by the area of the connecting portion 46, 64 between the bases 48, 54; 66, 70, and a thickness T which is larger than the maximum thickness of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28. Assembly of the dual beam terminal 26 with the carrier 22 is now described. In a first embodiment, the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 1 prior to assembly with the carrier 22. The dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 32. The aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein. As a result, the first beam 42 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22. The outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22. After the dual beam terminal 26 is positioned within the aperture 32, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 22. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20. Alternatively, and in accordance with a second embodiment of assembling the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 22, the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 42, which will not be inserted through the carrier 22, has been formed. The dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the flat beam, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 32. The aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein. As a result, the first beam 42 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22. The outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22. After the dual beam terminal 26 is positioned within the aperture 32, the dual beam terminal 26 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art. Thereafter, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 22. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20. The crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array. In addition, because the beams 42, 44 are small and have a small pitch, a low inductance is provided by the socket connector 20. The use of the carrier 22 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20. The socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. Assembly of the single beam terminal 28 with the carrier 22 is described. In a first embodiment, the single beam terminal 28 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 2 prior to assembly with the carrier 22. The single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 32. The aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein. As a result, the first beam 60 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22. The outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22. After the single beam terminal 28 is positioned within the aperture 32, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 22. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20. Alternatively, and in accordance with a second embodiment of assembling the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 22, the single beam terminal 28 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 60, which will not be inserted through the carrier 22, has been formed. The single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the flat beam, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 32 in the carrier 22 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 32. The aperture 32 has a sufficient width W, thickness T and height H to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein. As a result, the first beam 60 is on the first side 30 of the carrier 22 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 32 of the carrier 22. The outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 22 and are angled relative to the carrier 22. After the single beam terminal 28 is positioned within the aperture 32, the single beam terminal 28 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art. Thereafter, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 22. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 22 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 22 to form the LGA socket connector 20. The crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array. In addition, because the beams 60, 62 are small and have a small pitch, a low inductance is provided by the socket connector 20. The use of the carrier 22 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20. The socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. Attention is now invited to the second embodiment of the carrier 24 which is best illustrated in FIG. 8. The apertures 40a, 40b in each pair are defined by a first aperture 40a and a second aperture 40b and are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. Each first aperture 40a has a width W which is slightly greater than the maximum width of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28, a height H' which is approximately equal to the height defined by the area of the connecting portion 46; 64 between the bases 48, 54; 66, 70, and a thickness T' which is larger than the maximum thickness of either embodiment of the terminal 26, 28. The second aperture 40a has a thickness T" and a width W" which is substantially equal to the thickness and the width of either terminal 26, 28. Assembly of the dual beam terminal 26 with the carrier 24 is described. In a first embodiment, the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 1 prior to assembly with the carrier 24. The dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 22 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 40a. The aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein. The second aperture 40b is positioned between the joints formed between the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b and the bases 48; 54. As a result, the first beam 42 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24. The outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24. After the dual beam terminal 26 is positioned within the aperture 40a, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 24. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween. In addition, a portion of the bases 48, 54 enter into the second aperture 40b and as a result, stress on the carrier 24 which is caused by the compression of the material of the carrier 24 between the bases 48, 54 is relieved (thereby minimizing any wrinkling of the carrier 24 which otherwise may occur). This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20. Alternatively, and in accordance with a second embodiment of assembling the dual beam teπninal 26 to the carrier 24, the dual beam terminal 26 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 42, which will not be inserted through the carrier 24, has been formed. The dual beam terminal 26 is assembled with the carrier 24 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 44, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 46 is positioned within the aperture 40a. The aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 44 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 46 to be seated therein. The second aperture 40b is between the joints formed between the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b and the bases 48; 54. As a result, the first beam 42 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 44 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24. The outer surfaces of the beams 42, 44 are exposed and the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24. After the dual beam terminal 26 is positioned within the aperture 40a, the dual beam terminal 26 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art. Thereafter, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the dual beam terminal 26 to the carrier 24. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 48, 54 and is used to compress the bases 48, 54 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 48, 54 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween. In addition, a portion of the bases 48, 54 enter into the second aperture 40b and as a result, stress on the carrier 24 which is caused by the compression of the material of the carrier 24 between the bases 48, 54 is relieved (thereby minimizing any wrinkling of the carrier which otherwise may occur). This is repeated for as many terminals 26 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20. The crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array. In addition, because the beams 42, 44 are small and have a small pitch, a low inductance is provided by the socket connector 20. The use of the carrier 24 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20. The socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. Assembly of the single beam terminal 28 with the carrier 24 is described. In a first embodiment, the single beam terminal 28 is stamped and formed into the generally "V" shape as shown in FIG. 2 prior to assembly with the carrier 24. The single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 24 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 40a. The aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein. As a result, the first beam 60 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24. The outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24. After the single beam terminal 28 is positioned within the aperture 40a, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 24. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20. Alternatively, and in accordance with a second embodiment of assembling the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 24, the single beam terminal 28 is stamped out of a sheet of material such that it is flat (i.e., the generally "V" shape has not yet been formed), or such that only the beam, for example the first beam 60, which will not be inserted through the carrier 24, has been formed. The single beam terminal 28 is assembled with the carrier 24 by inserting the one of the beams, for example the second beam 62, through the aperture 40a in the carrier 24 until the connecting portion 64 is positioned within the aperture 40a. The aperture 40a has a sufficient width W, thickness T' and height H' to allow the passage of the second beam 62 therethrough and to allow the connecting portion 64 to be seated therein. As a result, the first beam 60 is on the first side 36 of the carrier 24 and the second beam 62 is on the second side 38 of the carrier 24. The outer surfaces of the beams 60, 62 are exposed and the fingers 68, 72 extend away from the carrier 24 and are angled relative to the carrier 24. After the single beam terminal 28 is positioned within the aperture 40a, the single beam terminal 28 is formed into its generally "V" shape by suitable means known in the art. Thereafter, a crimping tool (not shown) is used to crimp the single beam terminal 28 to the carrier 24. The crimping tool is engaged with the outer exposed surfaces of the bases 66, 70 and is used to compress the bases 66, 70 toward each other to form a crimped joint. As a result, the bases 66, 70 may compress the material of the carrier 24 therebetween. This is repeated for as many terminals 28 as desired which are to be carried by the carrier 24 to form the LGA socket connector 20. The crimped joint allows for small pitch and provides for a low cost array. In addition, because the beams 60, 62 are small and have a small pitch, a low inductance is provided by the socket connector 20. The use of the carrier 24 is low cost and provides for a low profile for the socket connector 20. The socket connector 20 is easily manufactured as a result of the uncomplicated steps for assembling same. As shown in FIG. 3, the first beam 42, 60 of the terminal 26, 28 is suited for engagement with a chip package or other appropriate electronic component 74 and the second beam 44, 62 of the terminal 26, 28 is suited for engagement with a printed circuit board or other appropriate electronic component 76. The elongation and the angling of the beams 42, 44; 60, 62 allows for the flexure of the beams 42, 44; 60, 62 to provide for a secure connection to the electronic components 74, 76. The provision of the dual fingers 50a, 50b, 56a, 56b in the dual beam terminal 26 provides for a redundancy for the electrical connection to the electronic components 74, 76 in the even that one of the fingers fails. The dual beam terminals 26 can be inserted individually into the carrier 22, 24 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 8, inserted as an array 78 as shown in FIG. 10 into the carrier 22, 24, or inserted as a strip 80 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 into the carrier 22, 24. If the dual beam terminals 26 are inserted into the carrier 22, 24 in strip form or array form, the framework 82, 84 which mates the dual beam terminals 26 together are removed after assembly by suitable means, such as by cutting the framework 82, 84 away or etching, to remove the electrical connection between the dual beam terminals 26. The single beam terminals 28 can be inserted into the carrier 22, 24 in the same manner. Because the carrier 22, 24 is flexible, a stiffening framework 86 can be provided around the perimeter of the carrier as shown for example in FIG. 13. The stiffening framework 86 can be made of plastic or the like. As shown in FIG. 14, a coverlay 88 can be provided on the exposed surfaces 30, 32; 36, 38 of the carrier 22, 24 between the terminals 26 to prevent the electrical engagement of adjacent beams when the beams are deflected upon engagement with the electrical components 74, 76. The coverlay 88 is formed from a dielectric material and is secured to the exposed surfaces 30, 32; 36, 38 of the carrier 22, 24 by suitable means, such as adhesive. The coverlay 88 extends outwardly from the surfaces 30, 32; 36, 38 of the carrier 22, 24 a predetermined distance and is engaged by the fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b when the terminals 26, 28 are in the fully deflected condition such that the coverlays 88 prevent the engagement of a finger or fingers 50a, 50b; 56a, 56b with an adjacent terminal 26 when fully deflected condition. Alternatively, a dielectric material can be dispensed onto portions of the exposed surfaces of the carrier 22, 24 to perform the same function. The coverlay 88 can be a conformal coating, or a solder mask. The coverlay 88 can also be used with the single beam terminal 28. If desired, a solder ball 90 can be provided on the end of one of the beams, for example beam 44 to provide for a ball grid array attachment to the printed circuit board 72. The beam 44 preferably includes a section 92 which is angled to the remainder of the fingers 56a, 56b such that it is parallel to the printed circuit board 92 for attachment of the solder ball 90 thereto. The solder ball 90 can be attached to the single beam terminal 28 in a like manner. In another embodiment, the solder ball 90 can be attached to a non-flexible portion (not shown) of the single beam terminal 28 or the dual beam terminal 26. Electrical traces (not shown) may be provided on the carrier 22, 24 between desired ones of the terminals 26; 28 to electrically connect same. As described above and as shown in the drawings, the carrier 22, 24 is generally planar. As shown in FIGS. 5a and 6a, the first side 30 of the carrier 22 may include an inclined stopper 30a associated with each aperture 34. The stopper 30a is provided at a predetermined distance from the aperture 34 such that when the terminal 26 is inserted into the carrier 22, the stopper 30a is proximate to the first beam 44. The stopper 30a acts to prevent over-travel of the fingers 50a, 50b. The stopper 30a includes an inclined portion 30b that is inclined at the same angle as the fingers 50a, 50b of the beam 44 and the width of the stopper 30a is the same as the width W of the fingers 50a, 50b. Stoppers (not shown) may be provided on the second side 32 of the carrier 22. Stoppers can be used with the second embodiment of the terminal 28 and with the second embodiment of the carrier 24. While preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown and described, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS: What is claimed is: 1. A connector comprising: a flexible, dielectric carrier having first and second opposite sides and an aperture provided therethrough extending from said first side to said second side; a conductive terminal mounted through the aperture in the carrier, the terminal having a connecting portion extending through the aperture, a first beam extending from the connecting portion and provided on the first side of the carrier, said first beam being angled relative to said first side of carrier, and a second beam extending from the connecting portion and provided on the second side of the carrier, said second beam being angled relative to said second side of said carrier; said terminal being crimped to the carrier thereby forming a crimped joint between said terminal and said carrier.
2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the connecting portion, the first beam and the second beam are integrally formed as a one piece member.
3. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first beam is formed of two spaced apart fingers extending from the connecting portion and the second beam is formed of two spaced apart fingers extending from the connecting portion.
4. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first beam is formed of a single finger extending from the connecting portion and the second beam is formed of a single finger extending from the connecting portion.
5. The connector of claim 1, wherein the aperture has a predetermined height which is approximately the same as a height defined by the connecting portion between the first and second beams.
6. The connector of claim 1, wherein the terminal has a predetermined maximum width and a predetermined maximum thickness, and the aperture has a width which is greater than the predetermined maximum width of the terminal and a thickness which is greater than the predetermined maximum thickness of the terminal.
7. The connector of claim 1, further including a coverlay formed of a dielectric material over at least one of said sides of said carrier.
8. The connector of claim 1, further including a stiffening framework around a perimeter of said carrier.
9. The connector of claim 1, further including a solder ball provided on an end of one of said beams.
10. The connector of claim 1, wherein said second beam includes a first section extending at an angle from said connecting portion and a second section extending from said first section, said second section being generally parallel to said carrier, and a solder ball mounted on said second section.
11. The connector of claim 1, wherein said carrier further includes an inclined portion provided at a predetermined distance from the aperture on said first side of said carrier, said inclined portion being inclined at approximately the same angle as the first beam is angled relative to said carrier.
12. The connector of claim 11, wherein said inclined portion has a width which is approximately equal to a width of the first beam.
13. The connector of claim 1, further including a second aperture proximate said first defined aperture, and wherein when the terminal is crimped to the carrier, said first and second beams enter into said second aperture.
14. The connector of claim 13, wherein the terminal has a predetermined maximum width and a predetermined maximum thickness, and said second aperture has a width which is greater than the predetermined maximum width of the terminal and a thickness which is greater than the predetermined maximum thickness of the terminal.
15. The connector of claim 1, wherein a plurality of terminals are mounted on the carrier through associated apertures.
16. The connector of claim 15, wherein the apertures are provided in an array.
17. The connector of claim 15, wherein the plurality of terminals are connected together by a framework that is removed once the terminals are inserted through the apertures.
18. The connector of claim 17, wherein the terminals are laid out in an array.
19. The connector of claim 17, wherein the terminals are laid out in a strip.
20. A method of assembling a socket connector comprising the steps of: providing an aperture through a carrier, the carrier having first and second opposite sides; providing a terminal having a connecting portion, a first beam extending from the connecting portion and a second beam extending from the connecting portion; passing one of the first and second beams through the aperture in the carrier until the connecting portion is positioned within the aperture and the first beam is on the first side of the carrier and the second beam is on the second side of the carrier; and crimping the terminal to the carrier.
21. The method of claim 20, further including the step of providing a coverlay over at least one of the sides of the carrier.
22. The method of claim 20, further including the step of providing a stiffening framework around a perimeter of the earner.
23. The method of claim 20, further including the step of providing a second aperture proximate the first defined aperture and wherein during the step of crimping, the beams enter into the second aperture.
24. The method of claim 20, further including the steps of providing a plurality of the apertures and providing a plurality of the terminals.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the plurality of terminals are connected by a framework and the framework is removed after the terminals are inserted into the apertures.
PCT/US2004/037235 2003-11-06 2004-11-05 Land grid array socket connector WO2005048409A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US51791203P 2003-11-06 2003-11-06
US60/517,912 2003-11-06
US54289204P 2004-02-09 2004-02-09
US60/542,892 2004-02-09

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2005048409A1 true WO2005048409A1 (en) 2005-05-26

Family

ID=34594882

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2004/037235 WO2005048409A1 (en) 2003-11-06 2004-11-05 Land grid array socket connector

Country Status (2)

Country Link
TW (1) TWI253789B (en)
WO (1) WO2005048409A1 (en)

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008009505A1 (en) * 2006-07-20 2008-01-24 Continental Automotive Gmbh Combined fixing and contacting element for superposed electrical carrier components
WO2009004313A2 (en) * 2007-06-29 2009-01-08 Ultra Electronics Limited Electrical connector
US11211728B2 (en) 2019-01-14 2021-12-28 Amphenol Corporation Midboard cable terminology assembly
US11404811B2 (en) 2019-01-14 2022-08-02 Amphenol Corporation Small form factor interposer
US11476619B2 (en) 2018-07-20 2022-10-18 Fci Usa Llc High frequency connector with kick-out
US11670879B2 (en) 2020-01-28 2023-06-06 Fci Usa Llc High frequency midboard connector

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
TWI509386B (en) * 2012-12-27 2015-11-21 Celestica Technology Consultancy Shanghai Co Ltd Main board and methods for disposing memory slots on the main board

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0384438A1 (en) * 1989-02-23 1990-08-29 The Whitaker Corporation An electrical connector and a method of manufacturing an electrical connector
US5228861A (en) * 1992-06-12 1993-07-20 Amp Incorporated High density electrical connector system
EP0903811A1 (en) * 1997-09-23 1999-03-24 Matra Marconi Space France Intermediate part for a microelectronic package and method of manufacturing such an intermediate part
US20020141123A1 (en) * 2001-03-29 2002-10-03 Peter Bishop Electrical connectors for display devices

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0384438A1 (en) * 1989-02-23 1990-08-29 The Whitaker Corporation An electrical connector and a method of manufacturing an electrical connector
US5228861A (en) * 1992-06-12 1993-07-20 Amp Incorporated High density electrical connector system
EP0903811A1 (en) * 1997-09-23 1999-03-24 Matra Marconi Space France Intermediate part for a microelectronic package and method of manufacturing such an intermediate part
US20020141123A1 (en) * 2001-03-29 2002-10-03 Peter Bishop Electrical connectors for display devices

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2008009505A1 (en) * 2006-07-20 2008-01-24 Continental Automotive Gmbh Combined fixing and contacting element for superposed electrical carrier components
WO2009004313A2 (en) * 2007-06-29 2009-01-08 Ultra Electronics Limited Electrical connector
WO2009004313A3 (en) * 2007-06-29 2009-04-23 Ultra Electronics Ltd Electrical connector
US11476619B2 (en) 2018-07-20 2022-10-18 Fci Usa Llc High frequency connector with kick-out
US11211728B2 (en) 2019-01-14 2021-12-28 Amphenol Corporation Midboard cable terminology assembly
US11404811B2 (en) 2019-01-14 2022-08-02 Amphenol Corporation Small form factor interposer
US11670879B2 (en) 2020-01-28 2023-06-06 Fci Usa Llc High frequency midboard connector

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
TWI253789B (en) 2006-04-21
TW200531365A (en) 2005-09-16

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4593463A (en) Method of making a contact assembly
US5254016A (en) Interconnect device mounting apparatus for printed circuit boards
US6527588B2 (en) Electrical connector with integrated PCB assembly
US7303403B2 (en) Electrical connecting member capable of achieving stable connection with a simple structure and connector using the same
US8167644B2 (en) Electrical connector for an electronic module
US6533590B1 (en) Ball grid array connector having improved contact configuration
US7485004B2 (en) Electrical connector having improved electrical element
US6652329B1 (en) Terminals for an electrical socket
US7448877B1 (en) High density flexible socket interconnect system
JPH0415998B2 (en)
JP2003197299A (en) Surface mount rectanglular electric connector
JP2001217025A (en) Terminal adapter of pcb (printed-circuit board)
US8172615B2 (en) Electrical connector for an electronic module
US20020016094A1 (en) Mounting electronic components on circuit boards
WO2005048409A1 (en) Land grid array socket connector
US5518426A (en) Electrical connector and method of assembling an electrical connector with rows of interspaced contacts
US20070281507A1 (en) IC contact for LGA socket
US20020168883A1 (en) Connectors for circuit boards configured
JP2003317845A (en) Contact pin, forming method of contact pin, socket for electric component, and manufacturing method of electric component
US6265674B1 (en) Terminal connecting structure of flexible board and printed circuit board
US20030220007A1 (en) Electrical connector with distortion-resistant cover
US8100700B2 (en) Low profile electrical connector terminal and method of mounting terminal on printed circuit board
GB2386481A (en) PCB connector with redundant contacts
WO2005048410A1 (en) Land grid socket connector
US9112317B2 (en) Interconnect device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AE AG AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BW BY BZ CA CH CN CO CR CU CZ DE DK DM DZ EC EE EG ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX MZ NA NI NO NZ OM PG PH PL PT RO RU SC SD SE SG SK SL SY TJ TM TN TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VC VN YU ZA ZM ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): BW GH GM KE LS MW MZ NA SD SL SZ TZ UG ZM ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GQ GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

DPEN Request for preliminary examination filed prior to expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101)
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase