Connector Protector Latch Structure for Side-Load Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical connectors in electronic systems are vulnerable to environmental contaminants such as dust, dirt, and moisture, especially in outdoor settings, and are prone to disengagement due to externally applied forces, compromising system operation.
Innovation Solution
A protector for electrical and optical connectors featuring a stabilizer mechanism with latching arms and lips that engage the bulkhead to resist sideways forces, a secondary locking mechanism with a biased slider or nut, and a cap that provides a secure seal and electromagnetic interference suppression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a basic connector protection housing is used, then the connector is protected from environmental contaminants, but the connector is prone to disengagement due to externally applied forces
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic locking system that can actively engage and disengage. The rotatable latch arm with cam surface creates a mechanical advantage system that securely locks the protector to the bulkhead, preventing disengagement under external forces while allowing controlled release.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a rotational dimension to the connection system through the rotatable latch arm. This transforms a simple linear insertion into a multi-dimensional engagement where the latch arm rotates into a locked position, creating resistance to forces in multiple directions rather than just the insertion axis.
2Ease of operation
If openings in the enclosure panel are made larger to facilitate connector access, then connector mating is easier, but environmental contaminants can more easily penetrate the enclosure
Solution Approach 1:
The protector housing is divided into multiple functional segments: the main housing body, the latch mechanism, the sealing interface, and the connector access opening. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function - the housing provides structural protection and sealing, while the controlled opening enables connector access without compromising the overall seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The protector housing acts as an intermediary component between the external environment and the internal enclosure. It provides a sealed interface at the panel opening while allowing the connector to pass through, mediating between the need for access and the need for protection against contaminants.
3Strength
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the protector cannot resist large and impulsive forces on the cable
Solution Approach 1:
The cam surface on the latch arm uses a curved geometric profile to transform the locking action. As the latch arm rotates, the cam surface engages with the corresponding feature on the bulkhead, creating a mechanical advantage that locks the connection securely. This curved geometry provides strength and stability without requiring complex additional components.
Data Source
AI summary
Components to protect an electronic assembly from moisture and other contaminants. These components may include a protector that receives a connector terminating a cable routed to the electronic assembly. The protector may securely engage the electronic assembly to form an environmental seal with an enclosure for the electronic assembly. That seal may be retained despite large and/or impulsive forces on the cable, even in a sideways direction. Stabilizers providing resistance to such forces may include a cross bar, joining two latching arms on opposing sides of the protector and/or lips on the protector housing that engage features of a bulkhead of the electronic assembly to counter sideways force. A locking mechanism may be automatically engaged once the protector is latched to the subassembly. Protective components may also include a cap that is securely retained and includes an audible indication when it is latched to the electronic assembly.