Vehicle Exterior Heater Connector Structure Against Detachment

The patent applies local quality by adding a flange projection specifically at the embedded portion of the connector housing where it interfaces with the cover base. This localized structural feature concentrates the reinforcement exactly where stress occurs during connector insertion, without modifying the entire housing structure. The flange projection creates a stepped configuration that provides both mechanical interlocking and stress distribution at the critical interface zone.

The patent transitions from a simple embedded configuration to a stepped three-dimensional structure by adding the flange projection. This dimensional change creates multiple interfaces between the connector housing and cover base - the flange creates an additional bonding surface that distributes stress across a larger area. The stepped structure adds vertical dimensionality to the interface, transforming a single-plane connection into a multi-level attachment system.

The patent merges the flange projection directly into the connector housing as an integrated feature rather than a separate component. The flange is formed as part of the housing's extruded structure, creating a unified piece that combines the housing body and attachment feature. This merging approach maintains reliability while reducing the number of discrete parts and assembly steps required.

The flange projection serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical interlocking with the cover base, distributes insertion stress across a larger area, creates additional bonding surface area during insert molding, and maintains the structural integrity of the connector housing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate features or components.

The patent segments the embedded portion of the connector housing into distinct levels by adding the flange projection, creating a stepped structure. This segmentation divides the stress-bearing interface into multiple zones - the flange creates an intermediate bonding surface that separates the direct stress path from the base interface. The segmented structure distributes the concentrated stress into multiple smaller stress zones across different interfaces.

The flange projection acts as an intermediary element between the connector housing body and the cover base. It provides a intermediate bonding surface that mediates the stress transfer between these two components. The flange absorbs and redistributes the insertion load, preventing direct stress concentration at the original interface and creating a progressive stress distribution path through the stepped structure.