Elastomer Seal Spring for Grounding and Multi-Surface Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional silicone elastomer seals in electrical connector systems primarily offer single functionality, either as a seal or a spring, limiting their versatility and effectiveness in dual functionality applications.
Innovation Solution
A seal spring made of silicone or EPDM rubber with elastomeric properties that combines both sealing and spring functions, interacting with a disk ferrule assembly to provide grounding and secure the connector assembly, while maintaining sealing against multiple surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional silicone elastomer seals are used, then sealing function is provided, but spring function is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and spring function into a single elastomeric component called a 'seal spring'. This merged component simultaneously provides the sealing barrier against contaminants and the spring-loaded grounding contact, eliminating the need for separate seal and spring components in the connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal spring is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a seal to prevent water and air ingress, serves as a spring to provide grounding force, and maintains electrical contact. This multi-functional design reduces component count and simplifies the overall connector structure while enhancing adaptability.
2Reliability
If separate seal and spring components are used, then each function is specialized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the seal and spring into a single integrated component that maintains reliable sealing performance through its elastomeric material properties while simultaneously providing spring-loaded grounding. This integration reduces the number of components without compromising the specialized sealing function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional seals are used, then manufacturing is simple, but dual functionality is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The seal spring is manufactured from a single elastomeric material (such as silicone rubber or thermoplastic elastomer) that exhibits both sealing and spring properties. This use of composite or multi-functional material allows the component to achieve dual functionality while maintaining ease of manufacture through single-material molding processes.
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 dual functionality of the seal spring enhances the sealing and spring performance, ensuring secure grounding and effective sealing against multiple surfaces, optimizing the connector assembly's functionality and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The seal spring is comprised of Silicone, EPDM rubber, materials and compositions which provide similar performance during use
Data Source
AI summary
The seal spring of the present invention has a dual functionality. The seal spring provides both a sealing property and spring function in use within an electrical connector system, which is accomplished by its elastomeric qualities. The seal spring is preferably comprised of Silicone, EPDM rubber or materials and compositions that provide similar performance during use, or the like. The seal spring of the present invention is not limited or defined into a spring section or a seal section by its geometry. Shown is an implementation of the seal spring within a conductive female housing and connector assembly. The seal spring compresses and provides adequate spring force against a disk ferrule assembly, pressing the disk ferrule assembly, with a wire shield, against a conductive female outer housing, providing a grounding scheme for the connector assembly. The seal spring also seals against the female outer housing and a wire.