Connector Guard Mechanism for Dust-Proofing FPC Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connectors for FPCs and FFCs often suffer from dust deposition on contact points due to an open structure that allows dust to enter when the object is not inserted, compromising their dust-proofing.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a base member with a recessed ditch to accommodate the contact's lower portion, an actuator with a guard portion that can be positioned to hide the contact points when not in use, preventing dust ingress by locating the guard portion under the mount surface when the actuator is closed to the contact guard position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the connector has an open structure to allow object insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but dust-proofing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the mount surface for object insertion, the ditch for contact protection, and the guard portion for dust shielding. This segmentation allows the contact points to be isolated from the external environment while maintaining operational accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The guard portion acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the contact points. It physically blocks dust particles from reaching the contact points while allowing the actuator to perform its function of pressing the object against the mount surface.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the actuator is designed to be closable to protect contact points, then dust-proofing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guard portion is merged with the actuator body, forming an integrated structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate protective components while maintaining the dust-blocking function, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves multiple functions: it presses the object against the mount surface during connection and simultaneously positions the guard portion to protect the contact points from dust. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated protective mechanisms.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the guard portion is positioned to hide contact points, then dust-proofing is improved, but accessibility for maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The guard portion is designed to be dynamically positionable rather than fixed. It can be moved to hide the contact points during normal operation to prevent dust ingress, and can be repositioned when maintenance is needed to allow access to the contact points for cleaning or inspection.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is connectable with a sheet-like or plate-like object having an end. The connector comprises a base member, a contact and an actuator. The contact is held by the base member. The actuator is supported by the base member so as to be openable and closable. The actuator is selectively locatable at a contact guard position, an open position and a keep position. When the actuator is closed to the contact guard position under a state where the object is not mounted on the mount surface, the guard portion is, at least in part, located under the mount surface in the up-down direction while the guard portion hides the contact point so that the contact point is unable to be seen when the connector is viewed from the front thereof in the front-rear direction.