Method and apparatus for connecting circuit boards for a sensor assembly
AssigneeSiemens VDO Automotive Corporation
InventorsJeffrey A. Clark, Brian M. Curtis
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A method and apparatus for connecting circuit boards together in a sensor assembly includes a connector that allows the circuit boards to be positioned generally perpendicular to each other. The connector includes a first end that is received within an opening formed at one edge of a main circuit board. A second end of the connector includes a resilient hook or clip that grippingly engages opposing sides of an auxiliary circuit board. The connector comprises an electrical contact between the main and auxiliary circuit boards. The perpendicular orientation of the auxiliary circuit board to the main circuit board allows for more compact packaging.
Claims20
A circuit board assembly for a sensor comprising:
- a first board having a first mounting portion;
- a second board having a second mounting portion;
- and
- at least one connector cooperating with said first and second mounting portions to position one of said first or second boards generally perpendicular to said other of said first or second boards.
A sensor assembly comprising:
- a main circuit board supported by a vehicle structure and having a first mounting portion;
- an auxiliary circuit board having a second mounting portion;
- and
- at least one connector having a first end for attachment to said first mounting portion and a second end for resiliently engaging said second mounting portion to attach said auxiliary circuit board to said main circuit board wherein said connector provides an electrical contact between said main and auxiliary circuit boards.
A method for attaching a main circuit board to an auxiliary circuit board comprising the steps of:
- (a) attaching a first end of a connector to a main circuit board;
- (b) orientating an auxiliary circuit board generally ninety degrees relative to the main circuit board;
- and
- (c) sliding one edge of the auxiliary circuit board into a grip formed at a second end of the connector to electrically connect the main circuit board to the auxiliary circuit board.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.