ECU Connector Pressure Equalization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic control units require a separate air pressure correcting device, which increases assembly space, time, and manufacturing costs due to its independent configuration.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a pressure correcting means directly into the connector of the electronic control unit, featuring a venting hole, venting channel, and air-permeable separating membrane, which adjusts internal pressure by communicating with the exterior through a venting hole and channel, and is protected by a venting hole protecting plate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate air pressure correcting device is used, then pressure correction function is achieved, but assembly space, time, and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure correction functionVSAvoidassembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pressure correction function is merged with the connector by integrating a venting hole and venting channel directly into the connector structure. This eliminates the need for a separate air pressure correcting device, thereby reducing assembly space, time, and manufacturing costs while maintaining the pressure correction function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is designed to serve multiple functions: electrical connection and pressure correction. By incorporating the venting hole and venting channel into the connector, it becomes a multi-functional component that both transmits electrical signals and regulates pressure between the housing interior and exterior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a separate air pressure correcting device is mounted to the housing, then pressure correction is achieved, but assembly space and manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The pressure correction functionality is combined with the connector manufacturing process. The venting hole and venting channel are formed as integral parts of the connector, allowing both components to be manufactured together, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the venting hole is exposed to the outside, then pressure correction function works, but the venting hole is vulnerable to external damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure correction capabilityVSAvoidexternal damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A vehicle side connector is introduced as an intermediary component that covers and protects the venting hole of the ECU connector. This protective structure allows the venting hole to remain functional for pressure correction while shielding it from external damage, dirt, and moisture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 integrated solution reduces assembly time and costs by eliminating the need for a separate pressure correcting device, while maintaining stable pressure for signal transmission and protecting the components from external damage.

Implementation Method 1

a venting channel which allows the venting hole and the interior of the housing to communicate with each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure equalization: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

An air-permeable separating membrane may be provided in the venting hole or on a surface of the connector in which the venting hole is formed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPermeation: Permeation

Data Source

PatentUS9992882B2Electronic control unit
Publication Date: 2018.06.05 HYUNDAI KEFICO CORP
  • US9992882B2 patent drawing
  • US9992882B2 patent drawing
  • US9992882B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to an electronic control unit. The present invention provides an electronic control unit including: a housing which has an opening opened at one side of the housing; a printed circuit board which is accommodated in the housing and has electronic control elements mounted on the printed circuit board in order to perform a control operation; and a connector which is connected with the printed circuit board and coupled to the opening of the housing, in which a pressure correcting means, which connects an interior of the housing and an exterior of the housing and corrects pressure in the housing, is provided in the connector.