Connector Waterproof Packing Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector designs face issues with unintentional detachment of packings, which compromises the waterproof performance, as locking mechanisms can slip out due to applied forces.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof structure for a connector featuring a housing, a cover with through holes and projections, and a packing with locked portions that project externally to be locked by the projections, preventing detachment by arranging the locked portions perpendicular to the projection direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the locking parts are projections and the locked portions are through holes on the ear parts, then the structure is simple, but if a force toward the front end of the projection is applied, the projection may slip out of the through hole and the packing may be unintentionally detached
Solution Approach 1:
The locked portion is extended in the direction perpendicular to the projection's projection direction, creating a multi-dimensional locking configuration. This allows the projection to engage the locked portion not only in the projection direction but also in the perpendicular direction, preventing slippage while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The locked portion is divided into multiple functional segments: a first locked portion for engagement in the projection direction and a second locked portion for engagement in the perpendicular direction. This segmentation allows each segment to specialize in preventing detachment along specific axes, improving overall retention reliability
2Reliability
If the locked portion is extended in the direction perpendicular to the projection direction to prevent slippage, then the waterproof performance is improved, but the locked portion may interfere with the projection in the projection direction
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the locked portion structure are designed with different functional qualities: the first locked portion is optimized for engagement in the projection direction, while the second locked portion is optimized for engagement in the perpendicular direction. This local differentiation ensures that each region performs its specific function without interfering with other functions
Solution Approach 2:
The projection is positioned such that it passes through the through hole and engages with the locked portion in a nested configuration. The locked portion extends perpendicular to the projection direction, creating a nested arrangement where the projection fits within the structural envelope of the locked portion, preventing interference while maintaining both locking functions
Data Source
AI summary
A waterproof structure for a connector includes a housing retaining terminals and having an opening, a cover closing the opening, and a packing mounted on the cover and sealing between the housing and the cover at the opening. The cover has through holes and projections projecting from an outer surface of the cover. The packing has a body sandwiched between the housing and the cover and locked portions continuous to the body. The locked portion projects from the through hole to an exterior space of the cover toward a direction in which the projection projects, and the locked portion is locked by the projection at least in a direction perpendicular to the direction of projection of the projection.