Flexible USB Connector Vibration Absorption and Waterproofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional USB connectors are prone to damage from shocks and are not effectively waterproof, as they lack protection against liquid leakage due to gaps between the connector and casing, and existing waterproof methods are inconvenient and aesthetically unsatisfactory.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device design featuring a specific-form connector with a soft cable and a compressively deformable waterproof component that absorbs vibrations and prevents liquid leakage, using a resilient material to fill the gap between the connector and casing, and a fixing component to secure the waterproof component in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional USB connector is fixed on the circuit board by soldering and passes through a hole in the casing, then electrical connection is achieved, but the connector may be damaged and separated from the casing when the casing is hit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cable with a soft core instead of a rigid connector. The flexible cable can bend and deform to absorb shock, preventing damage from impacts while maintaining electrical connection between the casing and circuit board
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design transitions from a fixed, rigid structure to a dynamic, flexible structure. The flexible cable can dynamically adjust its position and shape in response to external forces, allowing the connector to withstand shocks without separation or damage
2Device complexity
If the conventional USB connector is disposed without additional protection, then the structure is simple, but liquid may leak onto the circuit board via the gap between the USB connector and the casing
Solution Approach 1:
A waterproof film or flexible waterproof barrier is integrated into the connector structure, creating a seal that prevents liquid leakage through gaps between the connector and casing while maintaining the flexibility and simplicity of the overall design
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes composite materials combining conductive elements with waterproof materials, creating an integrated structure that provides both electrical connection and liquid protection without requiring separate components
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a detachable airtight gasket is used for waterproofing, then liquid leakage is prevented, but the casing with the detachable airtight gasket is inartistic and operation is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproof function is merged with the connector structure itself. The waterproof film or barrier is integrated into the flexible cable or connector housing, eliminating the need for separate detachable gaskets and providing both waterproof protection and aesthetic appearance in a unified design
Solution Approach 2:
The connector structure itself provides waterproofing through its inherent design features, such as sealed cable entries or integrated waterproof barriers, rather than requiring additional protective components that need to be installed or maintained separately
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 solution provides a stable and waterproof electronic device that absorbs vibrations and prevents liquid ingress, enhancing operational convenience and safety while maintaining an artistic appearance.
Implementation Method 1
Vibration is transmitted from the casing to the soft cable via the waterproof component and the first joint, and the vibration is decayed due to structural deformation of the soft cable
Implementation Method 2
The soft cable is a resilient component. A resilient deformation of the resilient component is substantially greater than the vibration amplitude of the first joint or the second joint
Implementation Method 3
The waterproof component is made of resilient material. The waterproof component is disposed between the first joint and the opening structure in a compressively deformable manner
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a casing, a circuit board, a connector and a waterproof component. The casing includes an opening structure. The circuit board is disposed inside the casing. The connector includes a first joint, a second joint and a soft cable. The first joint pierces through the opening structure. The second joint is disposed on the circuit board. The soft cable is electrically connected to the first joint and the second joint in a curvedly deformable manner. a length of the soft cable is substantially greater than an amount of vibration amplitude and a distance between the first joint and the second joint. The waterproof component is disposed between the first joint and the opening structure. Vibration from the casing can be transmitted toward the soft cable via the first joint, and is decayed by structural deformation of the soft cable.