Fluid pressure actuated connector
AssigneeInternational Business Machines Corporation
InventorsJohn G. Baumberger, James R. Petrozello
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An electrical connector for interconnecting opposed circuit members (e.g., modules, printed circuit boards) using an interim housing on which are positioned a pair of flexible circuit members which are capable of being expanded to provide desired connections. Expansion is accomplished through the application of pressurized fluid to the housing to cause expansion. Such a fluid (liquid or gas) may also cool the structure during operation. The respective conductors of the expandable flexible circuit members are electrically coupled using a common circuitized element (e.g., a thin dielectric having opposed arrays of conductive members thereon). Means for aligning the connector of the invention with the respective electrical circuit members being connected is also provided.
Claims19
An electrical connector for electrically interconnecting first and second electrical circuit members, each of said electrical circuit members including at least one conductive element, said electrical connector comprising:
- a housing adapted for being positioned substantially between said first and second electrical circuit members and defining at least one opening therein;
- first and second flexible members positioned on said housing adjacent said opening and adapted for being located adjacent said first and second electrical circuit members, respectively, each of said flexible members including a dielectric member and at least one conductor adapted for being electrically coupled to said conductive element of said respective electrical circuit member when said flexible members are positioned adjacent said respective electrical circuit members;
- at least one flexible, circuitized element located substantially within said opening of said housing and being electrically coupled to said conductors of said first and second flexible members to provide an electrical connection therebetween;
- and
- fluid pressure means operatively coupled to said opening within said housing for expanding said first and second flexible members when said housing is positioned between said first and second electrical circuit members and said flexible members are located adjacent said electrical circuit members, respectively, said flexible, circuitized element maintaining said electrical coupling between said conductors of said first and second flexible members during said expansion.
The electrical connector according to claim 3 wherein said housing is electrically insulative.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.