Vehicle Ethernet Connector Locking Mechanism for High-Speed Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Ethernet connectors for vehicles face issues of low transmission efficiency, insufficient engaging strength, inadequate interference protection, and limited applicability, particularly in high-speed and waterproof applications.
Innovation Solution
The proposed Ethernet connector features a plug and socket engagement structure with a lock plate and lock seat mechanism, combined with cable and board end socket configurations, including elastic plates and seal members for enhanced locking and sealing, and supports multiple port modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional Ethernet connector structure is used, then the device complexity is low, but the engaging strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional modules: plug assembly, socket assembly, locking mechanism with lock plate and lock seat, and sealing structure. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the locking mechanism to be optimized independently for strength without unnecessarily complicating the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism employs movable components including a lock plate that can slide between locked and unlocked positions, and an elastic plate that provides dynamic sealing. The rail guide enables controlled movement of the lock plate, creating a dynamic locking system that enhances engaging strength while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If a simple connector structure is used, then the manufacturing is easy, but the waterproof sealing is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic plate is integrated into the locking mechanism to provide flexible sealing. The elastic plate deforms to create water-tight seals at the interface between plug and socket, ensuring waterproof performance while being manufacturable through standard elastic material processing techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing structure is nested within the locking mechanism assembly. The elastic plate is positioned within the lock seat and rail structure, creating a compact integrated design that provides waterproof sealing without adding external sealing components that would increase manufacturing complexity.
3Productivity
If a basic connector design is used, then the device complexity is low, but the transmission efficiency is insufficient for high-speed applications
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates circular male and female terminals that replace traditional rectangular connectors, enabling higher transmission speeds. The circular geometry provides better signal integrity for high-speed Ethernet applications while maintaining a relatively simple overall connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to support multiple Ethernet standards and high-speed transmission protocols through its terminal assembly configuration. The universal design allows the same connector structure to handle various transmission rates, improving productivity across different application scenarios without requiring multiple specialized connector types.
4Reliability
If a conventional locking mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the engaging strength and interference proof are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lock plate serves as an intermediary component between the plug and socket assemblies, mediating the locking action. It slides along the rail guided by the lock seat, providing controlled engagement that enhances interference proofing while keeping the locking mechanism relatively simple through the use of a single primary locking component.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic plate provides self-service sealing functionality within the locking mechanism. As the lock plate moves into the locked position, the elastic plate automatically deforms to create seals, providing interference protection without requiring additional active sealing components or complex control 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
This configuration improves locking force, enhances waterproof sealing, and expands application scope by providing a robust and versatile connector suitable for high-speed and multiple port configurations, addressing the limitations of existing connectors.
Implementation Method 1
the ramp elastically deforms to cross over the second end of the bolt member
Implementation Method 2
The elastic plate is disposed at a first end of the mask of the cable end socket. When the plug is combined with the cable end socket, the elastic plate contacts the mask of the plug.
Data Source
AI summary
The prevent invention relates to connector fields, and more particularly, to an engagement structure of Ethernet connector for vehicle. The plug and the socket are combined and engaged; the plug shell mounted around an outer periphery of the male terminal assembly; the plug shell including a lock plate and a lock seat. When the plug is combined with the cable end socket, the plug shell is inserted into the cable end socket shell, with the circular male terminal combined with the circular female terminal. When the lock plate is pushed from the second end toward the first end of the rail, the ramp elastically crosses over the second end of the bolt member to be engaged between the ramp and the protrusion, and the hook member is engaged with the outer hook.