Waterproof Connector Assembly Using Elastic Protrusion and Recess
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wearable-device connectors lack waterproof structures, leading to deterioration due to water exposure in living environments.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a first and second electrical-connection member with elastic protrusions and recesses, respectively, that engage to prevent water from reaching the contact point, providing waterproofness by ensuring positioning and water-tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connector structures are used, then the connector can be attached to clothing or human body, but the electrical-connection members deteriorate due to water drops adhering thereto
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible waterproof film that covers the electrical-connection members when the connectors are engaged. This thin film creates a water-tight barrier while allowing the connectors to maintain their mechanical engagement function, preventing water drops from adhering to and deteriorating the electrical-connection members
Solution Approach 2:
The waterproof film is nested within the engagement structure of the connectors, being accommodated in the engagement groove when the connectors are connected. This nesting approach allows the waterproofing mechanism to be integrated into the existing connector structure without adding external components
2Reliability
If waterproof structures are added to prevent water adherence, then water-tightness is improved, but the connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement members serve dual functions: mechanically connecting the first and second connectors while simultaneously accommodating and positioning the waterproof film. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated waterproofing components, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible waterproof film automatically positions itself and creates the water-tight seal through the mechanical engagement of the connectors themselves, without requiring additional actuators, seals, or complex positioning mechanisms. The engagement action itself drives the waterproofing function
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 connector assembly effectively maintains waterproofness in living environments by ensuring the electrical-connection members are protected from water, enhancing durability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The first electrical-connection member includes an elastic protrusion and a first electrode arranged at a tip of the protrusion. The second electric-connection member includes a recess and a second electrode arranged at a bottom of the recess.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly of the present invention includes a first connector having a first electrical-connection member arranged on a base member, and a second connector having a second electrical-connection member arranged on a base member at a position opposite that of the first electrical-connection member. The first connector and the second connector further include engagement members at positions opposite each other. The first electrical-connection member includes an elastic protrusion and a first electrode arranged at a tip of the protrusion. The second electric-connection member includes a recess and a second electrode arranged at a bottom of the recess. At least one of the base member of the first connector and the base member of the second connector has flexibility. When the engagement members engage, the first electrode and the second electrode are brought into contact, and the protrusion and the recess are brought into contact.