Dummy Plug With Elastic Latch For Waterproof Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dummy plugs used in waterproof connectors are difficult to remove and can damage the sealing member when pulled out, leading to poor working characteristics and the need for replacing the entire sealing member.
Innovation Solution
A dummy plug design featuring a sealing portion, an insertion member, elastic pieces that latch between the inner and outer housings, and a pull-out member, allowing for easy extraction without damaging the sealing member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional dummy plug is inserted into the contact insertion opening to prevent water entry, then the waterproof connector maintains its airtight state, but the dummy plug becomes difficult to remove and may damage the sealing member when pulled out
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy plug is divided into multiple functional segments: a sealing portion for maintaining the waterproof seal, a pull-out member for easy removal, and elastic pieces for engagement. This segmentation allows the dummy plug to independently fulfill multiple functions - sealing, easy extraction, and secure positioning - without compromising the sealing member when removed
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic pieces act as intermediaries between the dummy plug and the connector housing. These elastic engagement pieces latch onto the housing structure to secure the dummy plug in place during normal operation, yet allow for controlled removal by applying force to the pull-out member, thus mediating between the need for secure positioning and easy removal
2Reliability
If the dummy plug is securely fixed in the contact insertion opening, then water entry is prevented, but the entire sealing member must be replaced if the dummy plug needs to be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy plug is designed as a disposable or easily replaceable component with a simple structure consisting of a sealing portion and a pull-out member. This allows the dummy plug to be replaced independently without replacing the entire sealing member, reducing costs and simplifying maintenance while maintaining the waterproof seal integrity throughout the service life of the connector
3Ease of manufacture
If the dummy plug structure is simple for easy insertion, then manufacturing is simplified, but the dummy plug cannot be easily removed without damaging the sealing member
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy plug incorporates elastic pieces that provide dynamic engagement with the connector housing. These elastic pieces can deform to allow easy insertion and then latch into position to secure the dummy plug, yet can be disengaged by applying force to the pull-out member. This dynamic behavior enables both simple manufacturing and easy removal without compromising the sealing function
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
Enables easy removal of the dummy plug without damaging the sealing member, improving working characteristics and reducing the need for replacing the entire sealing member.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic piece that extends diagonally from the dummy plug between the sealing portion and the insertion member
Data Source
AI summary
A waterproof connector with at least a first dummy plug includes an inner housing provided with a plurality of contact accommodating cavities. A sealing member is provided with a plurality of contact insertion openings corresponding to the contact accommodating cavities. The sealing member is attached to a rear side of the inner housing. An outer housing is provided with a plurality of contact insertion openings corresponding to the contact accommodating cavities. The outer housing secures the sealing member to the inner housing. The first dummy plug has a sealing portion extending into at least one of the contact insertion openings of the sealing member, at least one elastic piece that elastically latches between the inner housing and the outer housing, an insertion member arranged in the contact insertion opening of the outer housing, and a pull-out member that extends outward from the outer housing.