Snap-Sealed Cable Connection for Low-Cost Waterproof Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproofing solutions for outdoor electronic equipment are costly and increase the overall operational cost, thereby weakening market competitiveness.
Innovation Solution
An electronic equipment design that incorporates a casing with a sealing element and a snapping mechanism in the cable, which ensures electrical connection and sealing when the cable is connected, using a combination of snapping portions and a sealing element to prevent water ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-cost waterproofing function is equipped to the electronic equipment, then the waterproofing effect is improved, but the overall operation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproofing function is segmented into two parts: a reusable sealing element already installed on the electronic device, and a disposable cable with integrated sealing structure. This allows the cable to provide waterproofing at low cost while the electronic device maintains its core functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is designed as a disposable component with integrated sealing structure. Instead of making the entire electronic device expensive and complex to achieve waterproofing, the solution uses a low-cost disposable cable that provides waterproofing for the connection interface, reducing overall system cost.
2Reliability
If a sealing structure is added to prevent water ingress, then the waterproofing is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is merged with the cable structure itself rather than being a separate component. The cable body integrates the sealing element, snapping mechanism, and electrical connection in one unified structure, simplifying the overall system while maintaining waterproofing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable's snapping portion automatically engages with the electronic device's corresponding structure, and the sealing element automatically compresses against the pressing zone to create a waterproof seal. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control systems.
3Reliability
If a snapping mechanism is used to secure the cable connection, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is segmented into modular components: a snapping portion on the cable, a corresponding engagement structure on the electronic device, and a sealing element positioned between them. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simple processes while achieving reliable connection when assembled.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic equipment includes a device and a cable. The device includes a casing, a fixing element, a sealing element, an electronic element and a first connecting portion. The fixing element is disposed inside the casing and includes a first snapping portion. The sealing element is sandwiched between the casing and the fixing element. The first connecting portion connects the electronic element located inside the casing. The cable includes a second connecting portion, a wiring portion and a body connected between the second connecting portion and the wiring portion. The body penetrates through an opening of the casing and an opening of the sealing element. The body has a second snapping portion and a pressing zone. When the second snapping portion snaps with the first snapping portion, the second connecting portion connects the first connecting portion, and the sealing element presses against the pressing zone.