Through-Wall Connector Locking Structure for Compact Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional through-wall mounting connectors face issues of mechanical strength, sealing, space constraints, and high production costs due to complex locking systems and over-molded seals, particularly in the automotive industry.
Innovation Solution
A through-wall mounting connector design featuring a locking member with a resilient cantilever arm and external locking notch that allows for compact sealing and locking, eliminating the need for overmolding and simplifying production, while ensuring a high retention force and stable hold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking systems with over-molded seals are used, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking function and sealing function into a single integrated locking member structure. The locking member includes both the locking protrusion that engages with the wall opening and the seal that contacts the inner face of the wall, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and over-molded seal assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the seal from the over-molded assembly and makes it an independent, replaceable component of the locking member. This allows the seal to be manufactured separately and attached to the locking member, simplifying the overall structure and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining sealing reliability.
2Reliability
If conventional locking systems with over-molded seals are used, then sealing reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connector into distinct functional components: the locking member with integrated seal, the connector body, and the connection elements. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using optimized processes and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple, cost-effective seal material that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than requiring expensive over-molding processes. The seal is attached to the locking member in a cost-efficient manner that reduces manufacturing expenses while maintaining adequate service life for the application.
3Strength
If conventional locking systems are used, then locking strength is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a resilient cantilever arm in the locking member that can elastically deform during the locking process. This dynamic element allows the locking protrusion to engage firmly with the wall opening, providing strong locking force, while the resilient nature of the arm allows for compact design without requiring excessive space for rigid locking mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design achieves a more compact layout, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances mechanical strength and sealing efficacy without increasing space requirements, providing a stable and watertight connection.
Implementation Method 1
an external locking notch arranged on the resilient cantilever arm and adapted to be positioned against said external face of the support wall, this external locking notch being arranged opposite the inner bearing surface, and being movable by means of elastic deformation of the resilient cantilever arm
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 6~7
AI summary
Through-wall mounting connector adapted to be sealingly mounted through an opening in a support wall (2) against an inner face (3) of said support wall (2), comprising a locking member (11) which includes : - an inner bearing surface (13) supporting a seal (14); - a cross-member leg (15) projecting transversely from the inner bearing surface (13); - a resilient cantilever arm (16) projecting transversely from the cross-member leg (15), and extending in a plane parallel to the inner bearing surface (13); - an external locking notch (19) arranged on the resilient cantilever arm (16) and adapted to be positioned against said external face (12) of the support wall (2).