Waterproof Connector Single-Step Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional waterproof connectors require a two-step operation to connect and release, making it difficult to determine if the locked state is fully released and complicating the process.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof connector design that allows for a single-step operation to connect and release, utilizing a housing body and unlocking means that can be slidably moved along a butting direction to engage and disengage the lock operation portion, with an elastic member for constant bias and a coupling member for sliding movement, facilitating easy connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional waterproof connector uses a two-step operation (rotating collar member + pull-out operation) to connect and disconnect, then the connector can be securely locked, but the operation becomes complex and it is difficult to determine whether the locked state is fully released
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking and unlocking operations into a single integrated action. The locking protrusion and locking groove work together such that insertion automatically engages the lock, and a single pull-out motion simultaneously disengages both the locking mechanism and the connection, eliminating the need for separate rotational and pull-out steps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates visual feedback through color-coded indicators (e.g., green for locked, red for unlocked) and mechanical feedback through audible clicks or tactile sensations during the locking/unlocking process. This allows users to immediately determine the locked state without complex operations or ambiguous positions
2Ease of operation
If a conventional waterproof connector requires rotating the collar member to release the lock, then the locking mechanism can be disengaged, but it is difficult to figure out whether the locked state is actually released
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded indicators or color-changing elements that visually signal the locked/unlocked state. For example, a window displaying green when locked and red when unlocked, or a color ring that changes position or color based on the locking state, making it immediately obvious whether the lock has been released without requiring the user to understand mechanical positions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates immediate visual and tactile feedback mechanisms that clearly indicate when the locked state has been released. This includes visual indicators, audible clicks, or tactile sensations that confirm the locking protrusion has disengaged from the locking groove, eliminating uncertainty about the lock's state
3Reliability
If a conventional waterproof connector uses a cam member and lock mechanism to release the locked state, then the connection can be released, but the operation becomes relatively complicated requiring multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex cam member and multi-component lock mechanism from the connector design. Instead, it uses a simplified direct-acting locking protrusion and locking groove system that requires no additional mechanical components, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable connection and release functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the connector is inserted, without requiring manual operation. The locking protrusion and groove self-align and self-lock through the insertion motion itself. Similarly, the pull-out motion automatically disengages the lock, making the system self-serving and eliminating the need for complex operated 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
Enables efficient and reliable single-step connection and disconnection of the waterproof connector, ensuring easy verification of the release state and maintaining a secure waterproof seal.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member and coupling mechanism to facilitate easy operation and ensure secure locking and unlocking
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a waterproof connector. The waterproof connector comprises a connector member supporting a ferrule to be butted against a target ferrule disposed in a target connector, the connector member being adapted to be locked to an adapter member of the target connector by an action of a lock operation portion provided in the connector member; unlocking means being adapted to operate the lock operation portion to release the locked state; and a housing body allowing the unlocking means to be slidably moved. The waterproof connector is adapted to be released from the connection with the target connector in such a manner that the unlocking means is allowed to be moved away from the connector member, whereby the unlocking means is operable to operate the lock operation portion to release the locked state, and to move the connector member away from the adapter member to release the fitting.