Waterproof Explosion-Proof Button Connector Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing waterproof button structures are overly complex and costly due to the use of numerous elements, which complicates assembly and fails to provide effective waterproof and explosion-proof solutions.

Innovation Solution

A connector structure comprising a hollow connecting element, an explosion-proof element, and a waterproof element, where the waterproof element completely covers the connecting element, using a simple assembly process to achieve both waterproof and explosion-proof effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple elements (button ring, button, waterproof layer, piezoelectric element, button base) are used to achieve waterproof function, then waterproof effect is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof effectVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the waterproof layer, piezoelectric element, and button into a single integrated waterproof button assembly. The waterproof layer is formed as an integral part of the button structure, eliminating the need for separate waterproof layers and reducing the number of assembly steps while maintaining effective waterproofing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The button structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical button operation, waterproof sealing, and piezoelectric signal generation. The integrated design allows a single component to fulfill what previously required multiple separate elements, simplifying both the device structure and assembly process.

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

2Reliability

If multiple elements are used to achieve waterproof function, then waterproof effect is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof effectVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof layer and piezoelectric element are integrated into a single manufacturable unit, reducing the number of separate components that need to be produced, stored, and assembled. This integration reduces material costs and manufacturing overhead while maintaining the waterproof sealing effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If through hole is used in button base for button post, then button functionality is achieved, but liquid can enter via through hole causing loss of waterproof effect

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebutton functionalityVSAvoidwaterproof effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The button post is nested within the button structure itself, with the waterproof layer extending to seal around the post. The button functionality is achieved through the integrated button-post assembly, while the waterproof layer completely encloses the interface, preventing liquid entry through the connection point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Strength

If hard materials are used for closing element and body, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility is reduced and machine cleansing causes collisions and corrosions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidflexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof button utilizes composite construction where the button body and waterproof layer are made from materials that balance structural integrity with resistance to environmental factors. The integrated design allows for material selection that provides both strength and flexibility, and resistance to corrosion from machine cleansing while maintaining button functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS8026455B2Connector structure of waterproof and explosion-proof button
Publication Date: 2011.09.27 MOXA INC
  • US8026455B2 patent drawing
  • US8026455B2 patent drawing
  • US8026455B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connector structure of waterproof and explosion-proof button is provided. A waterproof element completely covers the connecting part of the connecting element. By pressing a first button bar of the waterproof element, a second button bar is driven to depress the button therein. A companion part inside the connecting element is connected and fixed with an explosion-proof element. The connector structure thus achieves the waterproof and explosion-proof effects and has the button function at the same time. The structure solves the problem of having too many elements and too complicated assembly process for achieving the waterproof effect in the prior art. According to the structure, the assembly of the connector structure is simple and both waterproof and explosion-proof effects are simultaneously achieved.