Conductive Elastic Rib Connector Module for Waterproof EMI Sealing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connector modules struggle to provide effective waterproof and electromagnetic protection simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

A connector module design featuring an elastic rib protruding from the connector shell, coated with a first conductive layer, which contacts the casing for waterproofing, and a second conductive layer on the shell for electromagnetic protection, ensuring both functionalities are achieved.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a connector module provides waterproof protection, then it achieves IPX5 waterproof standard, but electromagnetic protection is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof protectionVSAvoidelectromagnetic protection
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the protective function into two separate components: a waterproof rib structure that provides waterproof protection, and a conductive layer that provides electromagnetic shielding. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in one function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between waterproof and electromagnetic protection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite material structure by combining the waterproof rib (made of elastic material like rubber or silicone) with a conductive layer (coated on the rib). This composite structure integrates both waterproof and electromagnetic shielding properties into a single integrated component, achieving dual protection simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the elastic rib is coated with conductive layer for electromagnetic protection, then electromagnetic shielding is improved, but the waterproof effect may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic protectionVSAvoidwaterproof effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a thin conductive coating layer on the flexible waterproof rib. The thin film nature of the conductive layer allows it to conform to the rib's shape and maintain the rib's flexibility and elastic deformation capability, ensuring that the waterproof effect is not compromised while achieving electromagnetic shielding

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of the rib by coating it with conductive material, transforming it from a purely waterproof component to a dual-function component that maintains both waterproof and electromagnetic shielding properties through careful selection of coating material and thickness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The design provides a waterproof effect meeting IPX5 standards and effective electromagnetic protection, demonstrating a robust dual protection mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic rib is disposed and protrudes from the front side. The elastic rib surrounds the first opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The first conductive layer is coated on the front side and the elastic rib and the first conductive layer is adapted to contact with the casing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

The second conductive layer is laid on a side of the first conductive layer opposite to the front side and includes a second opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12609483B2Connector module
Publication Date: 2026.04.21 PEGATRON
  • US12609483B2 patent drawing
  • US12609483B2 patent drawing
  • US12609483B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connector module is adapted to be disposed in a casing including a casing opening. The connector module includes a connector shell, an elastic rib, a connection terminal, a first and a second conductive layer. The connector shell includes a front side and a first opening. The first opening is aligned with the casing opening. The elastic rib is disposed and protrudes from the front side. The elastic rib surrounds the first opening. The connection terminal is disposed in the connector shell and exposed to the first opening. The first conductive layer is coated on the front side and the elastic rib, and contacts with the casing. The second conductive layer is laid on a side of the first conductive layer opposite to the front side and includes a second opening. The first opening and the elastic rib coated with the first conductive layer are exposed to the second opening.