Connector Waterproofing Member for Multi-Interface Sealing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic equipment connectors require multiple waterproofing components to maintain a seal, which can increase complexity and cost.

Innovation Solution

A single waterproofing member with multiple contact portions is used, sandwiched between the connector housing and case, and the mating connector, providing a waterproof seal between the connector and case, as well as between the connector and the mating connector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple waterproofing components are used in the connector, then the waterproof seal reliability is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewaterproof seal reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of waterproofing components

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple waterproofing functions into a single integrated waterproofing member. This member includes a first contact portion that seals between the connector housing and case, and a second contact portion that seals between the connector and mating connector. By merging these functions into one component, the patent reduces the total number of waterproofing parts while maintaining comprehensive sealing coverage at both interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The waterproofing member is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple sealing tasks simultaneously. It provides waterproof sealing both between the connector housing and case, and between the connector and mating connector. This universal design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate waterproofing elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple waterproofing components are used in the connector, then the waterproof seal reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewaterproof seal reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If a single waterproofing member is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of maintaining waterproof seal may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of waterproofing componentsVSAvoidwaterproof seal reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproofing member is segmented into distinct functional portions: a first contact portion for sealing between the connector housing and case, and a second contact portion for sealing between the connector and mating connector. This segmentation within a unified structure allows each portion to perform its specific sealing function independently, ensuring reliable waterproofing at both interfaces while maintaining component simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The waterproofing member exhibits local quality by having different contact portions optimized for their specific sealing locations. The first contact portion is positioned and configured for the housing-case interface, while the second contact portion is positioned and configured for the connector-mating connector interface. This localized optimization ensures each area receives appropriate sealing performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This configuration reduces the number of waterproofing components needed, simplifying the design and potentially lowering costs while maintaining effective waterproofing.

Implementation Method 1

The waterproofing member has an elastic property and is attached to the housing. The first contact portion is pressed against and in contact with the bottom portion in the first direction by the elasticity of the waterproofing member.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11804669B2Electronic equipment

Publication Date: 2023.10.31 JAPAN AVIATION ELECTRONICS IND LTD

AI summary

An electronic equipment comprises a case and a connector which is attached to the case. The connector comprises a housing and a waterproofing member. The waterproofing member is sandwiched by a mating connector and a side portion of the housing in a second direction when the connector is mated with the mating connector. The waterproofing member has at least one first contact portion, at least one second contact portion, at least one third contact portion and at least one fourth contact portion. The third contact portion is pressed against the side portion in the second direction by elasticity of the waterproofing member upon the mating of the connector with the mating connector. The fourth contact portion is pressed against and in contact with the mating connector in the second direction by the elasticity of the waterproofing member upon the mating of the connector with the mating connector.