Power Conversion Lid Bead for Connector Water Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power conversion apparatuses in vehicle engine compartments face issues with water intrusion through the opening where the connector is exposed, due to bending caused by vibrations, which can allow rainwater to enter the casing.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion apparatus with a lid that includes a bead protruding from the top plate to enclose the exposed connector, enhancing the strength of the opening area and preventing water entry, along with a cover member and an inclined top plate to direct water flow away from the opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid has an opening to expose the connector, then the connector can be accessed for cable connection, but the opening area becomes weak and prone to bending under vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is segmented into functional zones: a solid base structure and a localized opening area. The bead structure further segments the opening area into an enclosed protective zone around the connector, separating the structural support function from the connector exposure function.
Solution Approach 2:
The bead structure provides localized reinforcement specifically at the opening area where the connector is exposed, while the rest of the lid maintains its original design. This local quality enhancement strengthens only the vulnerable opening area without adding unnecessary weight or complexity to the entire lid structure.
2Strength
If the opening area is reinforced to prevent bending, then structural strength is improved, but water may still enter through the opening space
Solution Approach 1:
The bead structure acts as an intermediary element between the opening and the external environment. It creates a physical barrier that mediates the interaction between rainwater and the connector area, blocking water intrusion while maintaining connector accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The bead structure preemptively counteracts the harmful effect of water intrusion by creating a protective enclosure around the connector before water can enter. This preliminary protective action prevents the harmful effect rather than addressing it after occurrence.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the bead protrudes higher than the connector, then water protection is improved, but the device height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bead protrudes slightly higher than the connector (excessive action) to ensure complete water protection, but this excessive height is minimized to only what is necessary for the protective function, avoiding unnecessary height increase that would affect device mounting and integration.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a power conversion apparatus that can enhance the strength of the vicinity of an opening through which a connector is exposed, and can prevent water from entering a casing through the opening or reduce such water intrusion. The power conversion apparatus includes a circuit board, a connector mounted on the circuit board, and a lid having an opening to allow the connector to be exposed therethrough and placed over the circuit board and the connector. The lid includes a bead that protrudes from a top plate to enclose an exposed portion of the connector.