Modular Waterproof Gate Assembly for Independent Cover Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing waterproof gate assemblies for electronic devices require both gate covers to be replaced if either is damaged, leading to resource wastage and limited design versatility due to the need for individual design modifications for each model.

Innovation Solution

A waterproof gate assembly with a cover, installation axle, and fixing member, where the installation axle includes an axial groove, engaging structure, and fixing structure, allowing each gate assembly to be separately mounted and maintained, reducing structural space, and enabling independent replacement without affecting the other gate cover.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If two gate covers are connected to a same pivotal axle, then the number of pivotal axles required is reduced and structural space used is reduced, but gate covers of both sides need to be replaced in case of damage of either gate cover resulting in resource wastage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of pivotal axlesVSAvoidreplacement of gate covers
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the gate assembly into independent modular units, where each gate cover has its own separate pivotal axle and mounting structure. This segmentation allows individual gate covers to be replaced without affecting the other gate cover, resolving the contradiction by enabling easy repair while maintaining compact design through standardized modular components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If two gate covers are connected to a same pivotal axle, then the number of pivotal axles required is reduced and structural space used is reduced, but design modifications to one gate cover or opening alone cannot be made limiting design versatilities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural spaceVSAvoiddesign modifications
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the gate system into independent modular units with standardized interfaces, the patent enables individual gate covers to be modified, upgraded, or adapted without affecting other parts of the system. This modular approach maintains compact structural space while maximizing design versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs universal mounting structures and standardized interfaces that allow the same pivotal axle design to be used across multiple gate covers and openings. This universality reduces structural space requirements while enabling flexible design modifications for different models and applications.

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

3Reliability

If gate covers need to be individually designed corresponding to the openings of various models, then waterproof sealing is achieved, but design modifications for similar models are limited increasing manufacturing complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof sealingVSAvoiddesign modifications
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs universal gate cover components with standardized mounting interfaces and sealing mechanisms that can be adapted to various opening sizes and shapes. This universality maintains waterproof sealing reliability while enabling easy design modifications for different models, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs adjustable sealing parameters and modular gate cover designs that can be configured for different opening dimensions. By changing geometric parameters rather than redesigning entire gate covers, the system maintains waterproof sealing while facilitating easy adaptations for various models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12289851B2Waterproof gate assembly and electronic device
Publication Date: 2025.04.29 GETAC TECH CORP
  • US12289851B2 patent drawing
  • US12289851B2 patent drawing
  • US12289851B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A waterproof gate assembly, which is configured to be mounted to a housing and includes a cover, an installation axle and a fixing member, is provided. The installation axle is connected to the cover, allowing the cover to rotate relative to the installation axle. The installation axle includes an axial groove, an engaging structure and a fixing structure. The axial groove is connected to the cover and includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The engaging structure is connected to one side of the axial groove corresponding to the cover, extends to the first end portion of the axial groove, and is configured to be engaged at the housing. The fixing structure is connected to one side of the axial groove corresponding to the cover, and close to the second end portion. The fixing member passes through the fixing structure and is fixed at the housing.