Waterproof Connector Cover for Latching Mechanism Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional waterproof relay connectors for solar cell modules are prone to dislodging due to external forces, leading to unintended disconnection of power cables.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a plug and socket made of synthetic resin with engaging parts, latching protrusions, and a cover part that exposes the latching mechanism for easy observation and protection, allowing for secure engagement and easy disengagement using a jig for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the latching part is exposed to the exterior for easy engagement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to accidental dislodging
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into functional zones: the latching part is segmented from the housing and selectively exposed through the opening, allowing it to be accessible for engagement while the rest of the connector remains enclosed for protection. This segmentation enables the latching mechanism to serve its engagement function while being protected from accidental interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening in the housing acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the need for accessibility and the need for protection. It allows the latching part to be visible and accessible for intentional engagement while blocking accidental contact from the exterior environment.
2Ease of manufacture
If the connector structure is simplified for easy manufacturing, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to insufficient protection against dislodging
Solution Approach 1:
The housing and cover are merged into a single integrated component molded from synthetic resin. This combining of elements simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate parts and assembly steps, while the integrated design inherently provides protection against dislodging without requiring additional complex protective mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The material parameter is changed by using synthetic resin for the entire connector structure. This material choice enables both ease of manufacture through molding and sufficient mechanical strength for protection, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and reliability.
3Reliability
If the latching part is covered for protection, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The housing provides different local qualities: it is enclosed and protective in most areas, but has a specific opening localized at the position where the latching part needs to be accessible. This local modification allows the latching part to be protected while remaining accessible for engagement through the opening.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector having a plug and a socket that may be electrically connected or detached at will. A plug housing and a socket housing are each equipped internally with at least one contact point. Provided on a sidewall of either the plug housing or the socket housing is an engaging part, and provided on a sidewall of the other housing is a latching protrusion that engages the engaging part. A cover part is provided in the vicinity of the engaging part that covers a latching part of the latching protrusion that is otherwise exposed when in an engaged state with the engaging part. The cover part is provided with an opening from which the latching part is accessible when the latching protrusion is in an engaged state with the engaging part.