Accession Number:

ADD014533

Title:

Underwater Mateable Electrical Connector.

Descriptive Note:

Patent, Filed 20 Sep 88, patented 20 Mar 90,

Corporate Author:

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY WASHINGTON DC

Personal Author(s):

• Marolda, Victor J., Jr

Report Date:

1990-03-20

Pagination or Media Count:

5.0

Abstract:

This patent discloses a plug-receptacle type electrical connector in combination with a thin, circular, elastomeric membrane joining a plurality of cylindrical elastomeric embossments formed as an integral part thereof. Each embossment further has conical ends at each extremity and an outside diameter slightly larger than the receptacle socket cavity it will contact. Each embossment also has a longitudinal through-hole of inside diameter ID slightly smaller than the electrical connector plug pin it is intended to fit over. The membrane is coated with a dielectric grease and slipped over the plug pins. Connector clamping forces produce hydrostatic forces, first on each embossment which causes water remaining between the pin and the embossment ID and then pin-to-pin to be broken into a discontinuous series of microspheres. The resulting discontinuity produces full electrical isolation for the assembled pins and sockets and pin-to-pin for the mated connector. Total refurbishment of a connector may thus be accomplished in situ. Keywords Patents, PAT-CL-439273, Electrical isolation, Electrical equipment, Underwater equipment. jg

Descriptors:

• *ELECTRIC CONNECTORS
• *PATENTS
• CAVITIES
• CONICAL BODIES
• CONNECTORS
• DIELECTRICS
• ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
• ELECTRICAL INSULATION
• GREASES
• MICROSPHERES
• PINS
• PLUGS
• UNDERWATER EQUIPMENT
• WATER

Subject Categories:

• Electrical and Electronic Equipment

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE