Waterproof Connector Shielding Shell Stepped Recess Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproof electrical connectors face challenges in effectively sealing the junction between the insulative housing and the shielding shell, particularly due to the lack of a robust and reliable sealing mechanism that prevents water ingress while allowing for dual orientation compatibility and secure mounting of contacts.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a stepped and recessed structure in the shielding shell, where the rear step of the shielding shell is matched by a corresponding step in the insulative housing, and a rear sealing element is applied at the junction, ensuring a secure seal and preventing sealing material from reaching the tongue of the insulative housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing element is used to seal the junction between the insulative housing and the shielding shell, then waterproofing is improved, but sealing material may reach the tongue and interfere with connector operation
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding shell features a recessed structure at its rear end that creates a localized sealing chamber. This recessed portion is positioned to contain the sealing material exactly where the seal is applied, preventing it from flowing forward to the tongue. The local modification of the shielding shell geometry solves the problem of sealing material interference while maintaining effective waterproofing.
2Reliability
If a simple cylindrical shielding shell is used, then device complexity is reduced, but sealing reliability at the junction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding shell is segmented into distinct functional zones: a main cylindrical body and a rear recessed portion. This segmentation creates a dedicated sealing zone that improves sealing reliability without significantly complicating the overall structure. The recessed portion acts as a separate functional element that contains the sealing material and enhances the seal between the housing and shielding shell.
3Ease of manufacture
If the sealing element is applied without a recessed structure, then manufacturing is simpler, but sealing material cannot be contained and may interfere with contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed structure of the shielding shell acts as an intermediary containment chamber between the sealing element and the connector contacts. This intermediate structure receives and confines the sealing material during application, preventing it from migrating to the tongue or contacts. The recessed portion serves as a buffer zone that protects the functional areas from sealing material interference.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector includes: an insulative housing having a rear base and a front tongue; an upper and lower rows of contacts mounted in the insulative housing and exposed to the tongue; a shielding shell enclosing the insulative housing; and a sealing element sealing a junction between the insulative housing and the shielding shell; wherein the shielding shell includes a rear step located immediately adjacent the junction and a recess at a corner of the step, and the base of the insulative housing includes a step fitting the rear step of the shielding shell.