Waterproof Component Locking Claw Protection Protrusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproof components for automobile engine rooms are prone to locking claw breakage when subjected to external forces exceeding the strength of the locking claw, compromising the waterproof seal.
Innovation Solution
The waterproof component design includes a housing body with elastically deformable locking claws and a mat seal cover featuring a protection protrusion that prevents excessive displacement of the locking claw, ensuring the claw remains intact even under external forces beyond its initial elastic deformation range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking claw is made elastically deformable to enable insertion into the attachment hole, then the ease of installation is improved, but the strength and reliability deteriorate when external forces exceed the locking claw's strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protection protrusion that extends from the mat seal cover into the locking claw's accommodation space. This protrusion acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and redistributes external forces before they can concentrate on and break the locking claw, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving the elastic deformation capability for easy installation
Solution Approach 2:
The protection protrusion serves as an intermediary element between the external environment and the locking claw. It mediates the force transmission by providing a broader contact area and redistributing loads, preventing direct transmission of excessive forces to the locking claw while allowing the locking mechanism to function normally
2Reliability
If the locking claw is designed with high strength to resist external forces, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of installation deteriorates due to reduced elastic deformability
Solution Approach 1:
The protection protrusion provides beforehand cushioning that allows the locking claw to maintain its elastic deformability for easy installation while protecting it from forces that would exceed its strength. The protrusion absorbs excessive forces before they can cause breakage, enabling the locking claw to remain relatively weak yet reliable
3Device complexity
If the locking claw is made slender to minimize space occupation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the strength deteriorates when subjected to external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The protection protrusion acts as an intermediary structural element that compensates for the slender locking claw's limited strength. It provides additional structural support and force distribution without requiring the locking claw itself to be made thicker or more complex, maintaining device simplicity while enhancing strength
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 effectively prevents damage to the locking claw by absorbing and redirecting external forces, maintaining the waterproof seal and preventing breakage, thus enhancing the durability and reliability of the waterproof component.
Implementation Method 1
When the housing body 101 is inserted into the attachment hole 61 of the wall 60, the pair of locking claws 103 are elastically deformed, and the housing body 101 is attached to the attachment hole 61
Implementation Method 2
The mat seal cover includes a protection protrusion configured to prevent displacement of the support wall toward a direction other than a direction of an elastic deformation of the support wall for insertion of the claw portion in the attachment hole
Data Source
AI summary
A waterproof component includes a housing body, a mat seal, and a mat seal cover. A locking claw of the housing body is inserted in an attachment hole of a wall together with an attachment hole insertion portion and has an elastically deformable support wall and a claw portion formed at a tip of the support wall and protruding outward from an outer surface of the support wall. The mat seal cover includes a protection protrusion configured to prevent displacement of the support wall toward a direction other than a direction of an elastic deformation of the support wall for insertion of the claw portion in the attachment hole.