OBD Socket Cover with Integrated Locking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective devices for vehicle OBD diagnostic sockets are complex, require removal of sockets for installation, and lack durability, making them inefficient and difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A simplified protective device with a cover device and security elements that are directly fastened to the socket's housing body using screws with mechanically coded heads, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring secure connection, which can be installed without additional holes or tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protective devices are designed with multiple individual parts and complex assembly systems (e.g., locking plates, sliding systems, dovetail guides), then the protection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and installation effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cover and locking element into a single integrated protective device that fits over the OBD socket. The locking element is built into the cover structure itself, eliminating the need for separate locking plates, sliding systems, and multiple fastening components. This integration maintains protection reliability while dramatically reducing device complexity and installation effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device serves multiple functions through its unified structure: the cover provides physical protection and access prevention, while the integrated locking element secures the device to the socket. The single-piece design performs both protective and locking functions simultaneously, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
2Reliability
If protective devices require socket removal for installation (e.g., installing in modified connector housings), then the protection reliability is improved, but the installation effort and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is pre-integrated into the cover structure during manufacturing, so that when the cover is installed over the socket, the locking element is already positioned to engage with the socket's locking mechanism. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for socket removal or complex assembly steps during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device is designed to install itself over the existing socket without requiring removal or modification of the socket. The cover simply slips over the socket and the integrated locking element automatically engages with the socket's locking features, making the installation process self-service and time-efficient.
3Ease of operation
If protective devices use simple attachment methods (e.g., basic screws), then the ease of installation is improved, but the protection reliability and anti-forcible-removal capability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element uses an asymmetric locking mechanism that requires specific alignment and engagement features on the socket. This asymmetric design provides simple installation through a single snapping motion while simultaneously creating high resistance to forcible removal, as the locking element engages in a way that requires significant force or tool intervention to disengage.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a protection device (1) for electric sockets (3) arranged in vehicles (2), in particular for OBD diagnostic sockets (4), wherein the sockets (3) comprise a housing body (31) with electric contacts (35). The invention is characterised in that at least one cover device (5) and at least one security element (6) are provided. The cover device (5) can be fixed in the housing body (31) of the vehicle-sided socket (3) using a security element (6) such that the cover device (5) prevents the contacts (35) of the socket (3) from being accessed.