Male Connector Pin O-Ring Groove for Reliable Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for sealing male electrical connectors with rectangular cross-section electrical contact pins are either expensive or risk damage to the O-ring and loss of sealing performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a narrowed part in the electrical contact pin to house an O-ring, with a rounded or oval section, and using a connector housing with a projecting part to secure the O-ring, providing a cost-effective and reliable sealing solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rectangular seal is moulded to match the rectangular section of the pin, then sealing is achieved, but the cost increases and multiple seal types are required for different pin configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The O-ring is designed as a universal sealing element that can be used with pins of different cross-sectional shapes (rectangular, oval, circular) by placing it in the groove of the connector housing rather than moulding specific seals for each pin type. This single O-ring design serves multiple sealing applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing acts as an intermediary component that contains the groove for the O-ring, mediating between the pin and the sealing function. The housing's groove shape adapts to accommodate different pin configurations while maintaining a consistent O-ring sealing interface.
2Reliability
If an O-ring is installed directly on the rectangular section of the pin, then sealing is provided, but the O-ring is at risk of damage by ridges and loss of sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The O-ring is pre-installed in the groove of the connector housing before the pin is inserted. This preliminary placement protects the O-ring from direct contact with potential ridges or sharp edges on the pin's rectangular section, preventing damage before the pin makes contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The groove in the connector housing serves as a protective intermediary structure that cradles the O-ring, isolating it from harmful interactions with the pin's geometric features while still allowing effective sealing when the pin is inserted.
3Reliability
If potting is used to seal the pin in the housing, then sealing is achieved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The O-ring provides a low-cost, simple sealing solution that replaces expensive potting materials and processes. While the O-ring may need replacement over time, its low cost and ease of installation make it economically superior to permanent potting solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a permanent, rigid sealing method (potting) to a flexible, removable sealing method (O-ring). This change in sealing mechanism parameters maintains sealing effectiveness while dramatically reducing manufacturing cost and complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical contact for a male electrical connector includes an electrical contact pin and an O-ring, the pin comprising a first part, a second part, and, between the first part and the second part, a narrowed part adapted to house an O-ring, the O-ring being arranged at the pin, so as to be housed in the narrowed part. An electrical contact pin, a connector housing, and a male electrical connector are provided.