Elastic Hole Plug Structure for Compact Sheet Metal Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sealing holes in sheet metals of vehicles after machining are inefficient and do not provide a compact, effective solution for waterproofing and dust-proofing.
Innovation Solution
A plug design comprising a cover body, support portion, and connecting member with elastic deformation capabilities, allowing for easy insertion and secure sealing using a hot melt adhesive process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plug is inserted into a hole in sheet metal and sealed with hot melt adhesive, then waterproofing and dust-proofing are achieved, but the sealing process is time-consuming and reduces manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is divided into three functional segments: a cover body for sealing, a connecting member for insertion, and engagement portions for retention. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the cover body provides reliable sealing while the connecting member enables efficient insertion without requiring complex sealing procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement portions are pre-formed on the connecting member before insertion. This preliminary configuration ensures that upon insertion, the engagement portions automatically engage with the hole edges to secure the plug in place, eliminating the need for time-consuming additional sealing operations and improving manufacturing efficiency
2Volume of moving object
If the plug structure is made compact to minimize space requirements, then space efficiency is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover body, connecting member, and engagement portions are merged into a single integrated plug structure. This consolidation achieves compactness by eliminating the need for separate components and assembly steps, while the unified design actually reduces overall structural complexity compared to multi-component systems
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting member serves multiple functions: it provides the insertion path through the hole, structures the engagement portions for secure retention, and maintains the overall plug geometry. This multi-functionality allows the plug to achieve compact dimensions without requiring additional specialized components, thereby reducing structural complexity
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 plug provides a compact, efficient sealing solution that effectively seals holes in sheet metals, ensuring waterproofing and dust-proofing while minimizing space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The connecting member has elasticity so that the at least two engagement portions can move toward the support portion central axis with elastic deformation of the connecting member
Implementation Method 2
the plug is sealed with the sheet metal by means of a hot melt adhesive process
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a plug for covering a hole in a component, comprising a cover body, a support portion and a connecting member. The cover body has a thickness direction. The support portion is connected to a side of the cover body in the thickness direction and has a support portion central axis. The connecting member is connected to the support portion and comprises at least two engagement portions arranged around the support portion central axis. The connecting member has elasticity to enable the at least two engagement portions to move toward and away from the support portion central axis with elastic deformation of the connecting member. The plug in the present disclosure has a relatively small thickness.