PCB Contact Pin Ledge Groove Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connector systems for printed circuit boards are expensive, require many components and space, lack adequate sealing, are difficult to clean, and have short life cycles.
Innovation Solution
A connector system featuring electrical contact pins with a cylindrical design, including a larger diameter second portion with a ledge and groove for sealing material, which are soldered to the printed circuit board and sealed with silicone material to reduce parts and space requirements while ensuring a secure and long-lasting connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional connector systems are used, then connection functionality is provided, but cost is high and number of components is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple traditional connector components into a single integrated electrical contact pin structure. The pin integrates the contact element, sealing mechanism (via groove and ledge), and mounting features into one unified component that is directly soldered to the PCB, eliminating the need for separate housing, separate seals, and other auxiliary parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contact pin performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection, environmental sealing (through the groove receiving sealing material), mechanical support (via the ledge pressing against the PCB wall), and structural attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Area of stationary object
If traditional connector systems are used, then connection functionality is provided, but space requirements are significant
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism is nested within the electrical contact pin structure itself. The groove is formed as an integral feature of the pin, and the sealing material is received within this groove, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides sealing functionality without requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is achieved by utilizing the vertical dimension through the ledge pressing against the PCB wall and the groove receiving sealing material, rather than requiring additional lateral space. This vertical integration allows compact footprint on the PCB while maintaining effective sealing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional connector systems are used, then connection functionality is provided, but sealing from environmental contaminants is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible sealing material (such as silicone) that is received within the groove of the electrical contact pin. This flexible seal creates an effective barrier against environmental contaminants like dust, dirt, and water, while the simple groove structure keeps the overall design uncomplicated.
4Ease of operation
If traditional connector systems are used, then connection functionality is provided, but cleaning difficulty is high
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted as a separate, removable element (the sealing material within the groove) that can be independently accessed and cleaned. This separation allows the sealing component to be removed or cleaned without disassembling the entire connector system, significantly improving maintenance ease.
5Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional connector systems are used, then connection functionality is provided, but life cycle is short
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the contact element, sealing mechanism, and mounting features into a single integrated electrical contact pin that is directly soldered to the PCB, the patent eliminates multiple potential failure points associated with separate components and their interconnections. This integration reduces the number of parts that can fail or become loose, thereby extending the overall system life.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical contact pin for a printed circuit board. The electrical contact pin includes a first cylindrical portion having a first diameter and a second cylindrical portion extending from the first cylindrical portion. The second cylindrical portion has a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The second cylindrical portion includes a ledge configured to press against a wall of a printed circuit board. The second cylindrical portion further includes a groove configured to receive a sealing material.