Vehicle Electrical Coupler Positioning Above Snorkel Inlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicles with electrical couplers located in water-prone areas require expensive and labor-intensive waterproof solutions, which are not cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
The electrical couplers are positioned above and forward of the snorkel's inlet port, allowing them to remain non-waterproof while avoiding water ingress, thus reducing implementation costs and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If electrical couplers are located in water-prone areas, then they can be positioned in conventional locations, but they require expensive and labor-intensive waterproof solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the electrical coupler from a conventional water-prone location to a higher vertical position above the snorkel inlet port. This dimensional change in vertical placement moves the coupler out of the water exposure zone, allowing the use of simpler, non-waterproof couplers and eliminating the need for expensive waterproofing solutions.
2Ease of manufacture
If electrical couplers are positioned above and forward of the snorkel inlet port, then non-waterproof couplers can be used, but the couplers must be precisely located to ensure protection
Solution Approach 1:
The snorkel inlet port is positioned at a specific height above the vehicle's lowest point during expected water immersion. This preliminary positioning of the snorkel creates a protective barrier that automatically shields the electrical coupler (when positioned above and forward of the inlet) from water ingress, eliminating the need for complex waterproofing designs on the coupler itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a frame, a steering assembly, an engine, a seat, an intake assembly, at least two electrical conductors, and an electrical coupler. The intake assembly includes a snorkel and a cover member. The snorkel includes an inlet and outlet port. The inlet port has a neck portion that defines an opening. The cover member is in fluid communication with the inlet port of the snorkel. The electrical coupler is engaged with the at least two electrical conductors and is configured to facilitate selective manual electrical disconnection of the at least two electrical conductors. A first imaginary plane intersects the opening and is substantially horizontal. A second imaginary plane extends laterally across the vehicle, intersects the opening, and intersects the first imaginary plane at a right angle. The electrical coupler is disposed entirely above the first imaginary plane and entirely forwardly of the second imaginary plane.