Rotary Connector Isolation for Foreign Matter Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing rotary connector devices are prone to foreign matter, such as water or dust, entering the internal space through the insertion opening, which compromises their environmental resistance.
Innovation Solution
The rotary connector device features a fixed body with an inserted portion that isolates the inner space from the external environment, including a first and second opening with equal areas and a third and fourth wall configuration that lengthens the clearance path, preventing foreign matter from entering the internal space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an insertion opening is provided in the fixed body for inserting the fixing pin, then the fixing tool can be inserted to restrict relative rotation, but foreign matter may enter the internal space through the insertion opening
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed body is divided into two separate spaces: the inner space of the inserted portion and the internal space of the fixed body. These spaces are isolated from each other, so that the insertion opening (first opening) only provides access to the inner space, not the internal space. This segmentation prevents foreign matter from entering the internal space while still allowing the fixing tool to be inserted through the first opening to perform its function.
Solution Approach 2:
The inserted portion acts as an intermediary structure between the external environment and the internal space. It includes the first opening for tool insertion and the second opening for foreign matter escape, while maintaining isolation between the inner space and internal space. This intermediary structure allows necessary operations while protecting the internal space from harmful factors.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the third wall and fourth wall are in contact in orthogonal direction, then the clearance path is lengthened, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The third wall and fourth wall are arranged to extend in the axial direction and contact each other in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rotational axis. This three-dimensional arrangement lengthens the clearance path that foreign matter must traverse to reach the internal space, providing enhanced protection while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A rotary connector device (100) includes a fixed body (10) including an internal space (S1), and a rotation body (20) rotatably assembled to the fixed body (10) about a rotational axis (AX) with respect to the fixed body (10). The fixed body (10) includes an inserted portion (50) into which a fixing tool (50T) restricting the fixed body (10) and the rotation body (20) from rotating relative to each other is to be inserted. An inner space (S2) of the inserted portion (50) and the internal space (S1) of the fixed body (10) are isolated from each other.