Waterproof Bushing Connector Assembly with Interchangeable Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electrical devices with similar casings but different internal circuit boards and connectors require distinct manufacturing processes, increasing costs, and external connectors in outdoor devices lack waterproofing, leading to moisture ingress and corrosion.

Innovation Solution

A waterproof bushing connector assembly with interchangeable receptacle and plug connectors featuring a bushing module, protective cap unit, waterproof O-ring, and seal ring, allowing for uniform installation and enhanced sealing against humidity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different external connectors are installed on electrical devices with similar casings, then the connectors can accommodate different internal circuit boards and connectors, but distinct manufacturing processes are required for each connector type, increasing manufacturing cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector compatibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal connector assembly design where a single standardized housing structure can accommodate multiple types of optical connectors (SC, LC, FC, ST, etc.) through interchangeable connector modules. The housing includes a standardized installation interface with threaded coupling and sealing mechanisms that work with all connector types, eliminating the need for different housing manufacturing processes for each connector type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assembly is divided into separable modules: a standardized housing assembly and interchangeable connector modules. The housing contains universal mounting features and sealing structures, while the connector modules can be independently replaced. This segmentation allows the housing to be manufactured once in a standardized design, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining adaptability to different connector types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If external connectors are designed with openings for signal transmission, then signal transmission and power supply between electrical devices are enabled, but moisture easily passes through the connectors into internal spaces in outdoor or humid environments, causing corrosion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmission capabilityVSAvoidmoisture ingress
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces waterproof sealing elements as intermediary components between the connector's internal signaling components and the external environment. These include O-rings positioned at critical interfaces (between the housing and connector module, around the cable entry point) and protective caps that cover openings when not in use. The sealing elements maintain signal transmission capability through sealed pathways while blocking moisture ingress.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs flexible waterproof sealing membranes and O-rings that can deform to accommodate connector insertion and removal while maintaining the waterproof barrier. The protective cap is designed with flexible sealing edges that conform to the housing opening, ensuring a tight seal that prevents moisture penetration while allowing easy attachment and removal for signal connection purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS9837755B2Waterproof bushing connector assembly, waterproof bushing receptacle connector and waterproof bushing plug connector
Publication Date: 2017.12.05 ACON OPTICS COMM INC
  • US9837755B2 patent drawing
  • US9837755B2 patent drawing
  • US9837755B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A waterproof bushing connector assembly has a waterproof bushing receptacle connector having a receptacle housing assembly, a receptacle bushing module and an optical receptacle connector, and a waterproof bushing plug connector engaged detachably with the waterproof bushing receptacle connector and having a plug housing assembly, a plug bushing module, an optical plug connector and a rear mounting lid. The bushing designs allow different optical receptacle connectors to be replaced on an electrical device easily and conveniently.