Waterproof Electrical Connector Assembly with Integrated Locking Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies with locking mechanisms fail to provide a reliable waterproof function between the receptacle and cable connectors.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector assembly featuring a locking device with an operation part and a locking part, along with sealing members on both the host and cable connectors, which are compressed in the front-to-back direction during mating to ensure a waterproof seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is provided between the receptacle connector and the cable connector, then the locking function during mating is improved, but the waterproof function between the connectors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking mechanism and waterproof sealing into a single integrated structure. The locking ear of the receptacle connector and the locking part of the cable connector not only provide locking engagement but also compress the sealing member to create a waterproof seal. This merging of functions resolves the contradiction by making the same structural components serve both locking and waterproofing purposes simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ear and locking part are designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical locking engagement and compression of the sealing member for waterproofing. This multi-functionality allows the locking mechanism to also serve as the waterproofing mechanism, eliminating the need for separate structures and resolving the contradiction between locking reliability and waterproof performance.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If sealing members are compressed in the front-to-back direction by the locking mechanism, then the waterproof function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing member compression function into the existing locking mechanism structure. The locking ear and locking part are designed with surfaces that directly compress the sealing member when engaged, eliminating the need for separate compression mechanisms and maintaining structural simplicity while achieving waterproofing.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member is designed as a flexible component that can be compressed by the locking mechanism and deform to provide a waterproof seal. This flexible sealing approach allows effective waterproofing without requiring complex rigid sealing structures, thus maintaining device simplicity.
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 solution provides a reliable and enhanced waterproof function while maintaining electrical connectivity, ensuring protection from moisture both inside and outside the connectors.
Implementation Method 1
a host connector forms a forward protrusion to form an outer region and an inner region, each provided with a sealing member adapted to be compressed in the front-to-back direction by locking mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly includes a cable connector equipped with a locking device essentially composed of an operation part pivotally mounted to the case, and a locking part pivotally mounted to the operation part, and a host connector equipped with a locking ear for locking with the locking part wherein the host connector forms a forward protrusion to form an outer region and an inner region each provided with a sealing member adapted to be compressed in the front-to-back direction by locking mechanism.