Articulated busbar assembly

Abstract

An articulated busbar assembly includes: a first mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a first fixed connection; a second mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a second fixed connection; and at least two extension busbars extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar. Adjacent extension busbars are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a pivot connection. One of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the first mounting busbar at a pivot connection, and another of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the second mounting busbar at another pivot connection.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application whose applicant is Morries Co., Ltd., the application date is August 27, 2019, the application number is 201980053767.1, and the invention name is "Articulated busbar assembly".

[0002] Related Applications

[0003] This application claims domestic priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. US62 / 723335 filed on August 27, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the field of busbars, and more particularly to an articulated busbar assembly. Background Art

[0005] A sliding insertable / extractable unit within a cabinet mounting hardware may require that it be powered on when partially or fully extended. Typically, this would be in a storage enclosure that slides out of the chassis (or a portion thereof) to access storage that is still powered and functional. Maintaining power to the unit when fully extended requires wiring and standard interconnect components that would normally be used in a sliding tracking system. Such components would be cumbersome due to multiple large American Wire Gauge (AWG) wires that limit ease of insertion / extraction and due to physical size. Such components also restrict cooling air flow (whether in the open state or in the closed state). Thus, certain groups of people would appreciate improvements to the components that keep such units powered on. Summary of the invention

[0006] A sliding insertable / extractable unit within the cabinet mounting hardware converts power delivery from the wiring assembly to the bus, allowing for a smaller footprint that improves air flow / cooling. The disclosure herein utilizes high current machined pins and known electrical sockets at pivot connections to provide multiple bus elements of variable length and "link" multiple bus elements together. Each pivot connection functions like a door hinge, but in addition to being a point of mechanical connection / pivot point, also carries current through the bus assembly. The ends of the bus assembly are connected to a midplane, backplane, a daughter card, and a chassis that need to be insertable / extractable.

[0007] In one embodiment, an articulated bus assembly includes: a first mounting bus configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first component at a fixed connection; a second mounting bus configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second component at a fixed connection; and at least two extension buses extending between the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus, wherein two adjacent extension buses are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a pivot connection.

[0008] In one embodiment, an assembly is provided. The assembly includes a first component, a second component and an articulated bus assembly. The articulated bus assembly includes: a first mounting bus, mechanically and electrically connected to the first component at a first fixed connection; a second mounting bus, mechanically and electrically connected to the second component at a second fixed connection; and at least two extension buses, extending between the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus. Two adjacent extension buses are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a first pivot connection. One of the at least two extension buses is mechanically and electrically connected to the first mounting bus at a second pivot connection. The other of the at least two extension buses is mechanically and electrically connected to the second mounting bus at a third pivot connection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present application is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0010] Figure 1 A prior art cabinet mounting hardware having a sliding insertable / extractable unit therein is shown;

[0011] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a first embodiment of the present disclosure mounted on a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware;

[0012] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 An assembled perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly mounted on a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware;

[0013] Figure 4 A perspective view showing one embodiment of a pair of mounting busbars mounted in one of the components, which in turn is mounted on a printed circuit board;

[0014] Figure 5 Show Figure 4a top view of one of the mounting bus bars;

[0015] Figure 6 A perspective view showing another embodiment of a pair of mounting busbars installed in one of the components;

[0016] Figure 7 Show Figure 6 a top view of one of the mounting bus bars;

[0017] Figure 8 Show Figure 2 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly mounted to a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and mounted to a second member disposed on a cabinet mounting hardware, wherein the sliding insertable / extractable unit is partially withdrawn from the cabinet mounting hardware;

[0018] Fig. 9 Show Figure 2 A perspective view of the hinged busbar assembly mounted on a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and mounted on a second member disposed on the cabinet mounting hardware, wherein the sliding insertable / extractable unit is further partially withdrawn from the cabinet mounting hardware;

[0019] Fig.10 Show Figure 2 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly mounted on a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and mounted on a second member disposed on a cabinet mounting hardware, wherein the sliding insertable / extractable unit is fully withdrawn from the cabinet mounting hardware;

[0020] Fig.11 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a first member mounted on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig.12 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a first member mounted on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig.13 Show Fig.12 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly mounted to a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and mounted to a second member disposed on cabinet mounting hardware, wherein the sliding insertable / extractable unit is partially withdrawn from the cabinet mounting hardware;

[0023] Fig.14 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a first member mounted on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig.15 An exploded perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig.16 Show Fig.15 An assembled perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly mounted on a first member disposed on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and mounted on a second member disposed on cabinet mounting hardware;

[0026] Fig.17 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a first member mounted on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Fig.18 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, the articulated busbar assembly including features of a first member mounted on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second member mounted on cabinet mounting hardware according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig.19 Show Fig.18 in Fig.18 A perspective view of the articulated bus assembly in different postures; and

[0029] Fig. 20 A perspective view of an articulated busbar assembly is shown, which includes features of an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure of a first component mounted on a sliding insertable / extractable unit and a second component mounted on cabinet mounting hardware. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] As required, the accompanying drawings show embodiments of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are only examples of the present disclosure, which can be specifically implemented in various forms. Therefore, the specific details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but only as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to use the present disclosure in various ways.

[0031] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure, which can be specifically implemented in various forms. Therefore, the specific details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but only as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to use the present disclosure in various ways.

[0032] Figure 1 The cabinet mounting hardware 20 is shown having a sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 therein. More specifically, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The rack mounting hardware 20 is shown as a 2U portion of a 4U rack system having an insertable / extractable upper portion. As shown, the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 may take the form of a drawer and the rack mounting hardware 20 may take the form of a storage cabinet in which the drawer is mounted. The sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 has a first member 40 mounted thereon, such as a midplane, a backplane, a daughter card, etc. and a chassis, and the rack mounting hardware 20 has a second member 50 mounted thereon, such as a midplane, a backplane, a daughter card, etc. and a chassis.

[0033] The remaining figures illustrate various embodiments of an articulated busbar assembly 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800 that may be used to connect a first member 40 and a second member 50 together so that power is transmitted between the members 40, 50 and grounding is provided between the members 40, 50. The articulated busbar assembly 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800 allows the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 to be pulled outward from or pushed inward into the cabinet mounting hardware 20 while always maintaining an electrical path between the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 and the cabinet mounting hardware 20.

[0034] Each embodiment of the articulated bus assembly 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, and 800 has: a first mounting bus 110, 610, configured to be mechanically and electrically mounted on the first component 40; a second mounting bus 120, 620, configured to be mechanically and electrically mounted on the second component 50; a first extension bus 130, 630, configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first mounting bus 110, 610 at a first pivot connection 180; a second extension bus 140, 640, configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second mounting bus 120, 620 at a second pivot connection 182 and configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first extension bus 130, 630 at a third pivot connection 184.

[0035] Focus on Figures 2 to 7 A first embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 100 is shown. The articulated busbar assembly 100 includes a first mounting busbar 110 and a second mounting busbar 120, a first extension busbar 130 and a second extension busbar 140, three pins 150, three retention clips 160, and six conductive contacts 170. Each conductive contact 170 may be a spring contact. The components of the articulated busbar assembly 100, i.e., the mounting busbars 110, 120, the extension busbars 130, 140, the pins 150, the retention clips 160, and the conductive contacts 170 are conductive so that power can be transmitted between the components 40, 50 along the articulated busbar assembly 100 and so that the articulated busbar assembly 100 can be used as a ground return path between the components 40, 50.

[0036] The busbars 110 and 120 may be installed in various ways.

[0037] In a first embodiment, the first mounting busbar 110 is generally L-shaped in shape and has: a first leg 111, which is fixed to the first member 40 at a fixed connection by suitable means (such as bolts, screws, rivets, etc.); and a second leg 112, which extends generally perpendicular to the first leg 111 and the first member 40. The second leg 112 has a free end 113. A generally cylindrical extension 114 extends outwardly from an upper or lower portion of the free end 113 (at Figure 2 , the first mounting bus 110 is shown with a generally cylindrical extension 114 extending outwardly from a lower portion of the free end 113). The generally cylindrical extension 114 has an opening (not shown) disposed therethrough, the opening defining an inner wall (not shown) of the generally cylindrical extension 114. The second mounting bus 120 is identical to the first mounting bus 110, such that the same components can be used for the first mounting bus 110 or the second mounting bus 120. Thus, the second mounting bus 120 has: a first foot 121, which is secured to the second member 50 at a fixed connection by suitable means (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets, etc.); and a second foot 122, which extends generally perpendicularly to the first foot 121 and the second member 50. The second foot 122 has a free end 123. A generally cylindrical extension 124 extends outwardly from an upper or lower portion of the free end 123 (at Figure 21, the second mounting bus 120 is shown with a generally cylindrical extension 124 extending outwardly from an upper portion of the free end 123). The generally cylindrical extension 124 has an opening 125 disposed therethrough, the opening 125 defining an inner wall 126 of the generally cylindrical extension 124. The first legs 111, 121 of the mounting bus 110, 120 can be modified to connect the mounting bus 110, 120 to a first member 40, 50 mounted horizontally (so that the mounting bus 110 is not generally L-shaped).

[0038] In such Figure 4 and Figure 5 In a second embodiment shown, the first and / or second mounting busbar 110, 120 has only a first foot 111, 121 to which the respective component 40, 50 is fixed at the fixed connection by suitable means, such as bolts, screws, rivets, etc. The first foot 111, 121 is formed as a plate. The first foot 111, 121 has a first flat side 111a, 121a and a second flat side 111b, 121b. One of the sides, such as the side 111b, 121b, abuts against the respective component 40, 50, so that the first foot 111, 121 and the component 40, 50 are parallel to each other. A generally cylindrical extension 114, 124 extends outwardly from an edge 111c, 121c of the first foot 111, 121 and extends outwardly from the respective component 40, 50. The generally cylindrical extension 114, 124 has an opening 115, 125 disposed therethrough, the opening 115, 125 defining an inner wall of the generally cylindrical extension 114, 124. In this embodiment, the component 40, 50 may be a printed circuit board that is inserted into an edge card connector on another printed circuit board 42. Although a single extension 114, 124 is shown, a plurality of extensions 114, 124 may be provided.

[0039] In such Figure 6 and Figure 7In a third embodiment shown, the first and / or second mounting busbar 110, 120 has only a first foot 111, 121 fixed to the respective component 40, 50 by suitable means (e.g. bolts, screws, rivets, etc.) at the fixed connection. The first foot 111, 121 is formed as a plate. The first foot 111, 121 has a first flat side 111a, 121a and a second flat side 111b, 121b. One of the sides (e.g. side 111b, 121b) abuts the respective component 40, 50 so that the first foot 111, 121 and the component 40, 50 are parallel to each other. A generally cylindrical extension 114, 124 extends outwardly from a middle portion of the first foot 111, 121 and extends outwardly from the respective component 40, 50, which can serve as an intermediate plate or a back plate. The generally cylindrical extension 114, 124 has an opening 115, 125 disposed therethrough, the opening 115, 125 defining an inner wall of the generally cylindrical extension 114, 124. In this embodiment, the component 40, 50 may be an edge card that is inserted into a printed circuit board 42. Although a single extension 114, 124 is shown, a plurality of extensions 114, 124 may be provided.

[0040] The first extension busbar 130 is preferably straight in shape and has a first free end 131 and an opposite second free end 132. The side surface of the first extension busbar 130 between the two ends 131, 132 may be flat. A generally cylindrical extension portion 133 extends outwardly from an upper or lower portion of the first free end 131 and a generally cylindrical extension portion 134 extends outwardly from an upper or lower portion of the second free end 132 (at Figure 2 , the generally cylindrical extensions 133, 134 are shown extending outwardly from the upper portions of the free ends 131, 132). The generally cylindrical extensions 133, 134 each have an opening 135, 136 disposed therethrough, respectively, the openings 135, 136 defining an inner wall 137, 138 of the generally cylindrical extensions 133, 134. The generally cylindrical extension 133 is positioned relative to the generally cylindrical extension 114 of the first mounting busbar 110 so that their openings are aligned with each other. Figure 2 As shown, the generally cylindrical extension 133 is located above the generally cylindrical extension 114 .

[0041] The second extension busbar 140 is identical to the first extension busbar 130, so that the same components can be used for the first extension busbar 130 or the second extension busbar 140. Thus, the second extension busbar 140 has a first free end 141 and an opposite second free end 142. The side surface of the second extension busbar 140 between the two ends 141, 142 may be flat. A generally cylindrical extension 143 extends outwardly from an upper or lower portion of the first free end 141 and a generally cylindrical extension 144 extends outwardly from an upper or lower portion of the second free end 142 (at the bottom of the second free end 142). Figure 2 , the generally cylindrical extensions 143, 144 are shown extending outwardly from the lower portion of the free ends 141, 142). The generally cylindrical extensions 143, 144 each have an opening (not shown) disposed therethrough, respectively, the opening defining an inner wall (not shown) of the generally cylindrical extensions 143, 144. The generally cylindrical extension 143 is positioned relative to the generally cylindrical extension 134 of the first extension busbar 130 so that their openings are aligned with each other. Figure 2 As shown, the generally cylindrical extension 143 is located below the generally cylindrical extension 134. The generally cylindrical extension 144 is positioned relative to the generally cylindrical extension 124 of the second mounting busbar 120 so that their openings are aligned with each other. Figure 2 As shown, the generally cylindrical extension 144 is located below the generally cylindrical extension 124 .

[0042] Each cylindrical extension 114, 124, 133, 134, 143, 144 has a conductive contact 170 fixed to the inner wall of each opening. The conductive contact 170 can have any suitable structure, but is preferably the type shown and described in International Publication No. WO2018 / 093981 owned by the applicant, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0043] The first connection 180 is formed by inserting one of the pins 150 through the aligned openings and conductive contacts 170 of the cylindrical extensions 114, 133 of the first mounting busbar 110 and the first extension busbar 130, respectively, and being secured in place by one of the retaining clips 160, thereby not only mechanically but also electrically connecting the first mounting busbar 110 and the first extension busbar 130. The second connection 182 is formed by inserting a second of the pins 150 through the aligned openings and conductive contacts 170 of the cylindrical extensions 124, 144 of the second mounting busbar 120 and the second extension busbar 140, respectively, and being secured in place by a second of the retaining clips 160, thereby not only mechanically but also electrically connecting the second mounting busbar 120 and the second extension busbar 140. The third connection portion 184 is formed by inserting the third pin 150 therein through the aligned openings and the conductive contacts 170 of the cylindrical extensions 134, 143 of the first extension busbar 130 and the second extension busbar 140, respectively, and being fixed in place by the third retaining clip 160 therein, thereby not only mechanically but also electrically connecting the first extension busbar 130 and the second extension busbar 140. The first connection portion 180, the second connection portion 182, and the third connection portion 184 thus act like hinges, so that the first extension busbar 130 and the second extension busbar 140 can also rotate and always remain electrically connected.

[0044] Figures 8 to 10 A pair of hinged busbar assemblies 100 are shown positioned adjacent to each other within the cabinet mounting hardware 20 so that the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 is movable within the cabinet mounting hardware 20 and still connects power when fully extended. The first member 40 is mounted on the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 and the second member 50 is mounted on the cabinet mounting hardware 20. One of the pair of hinged busbar assemblies 100 is shown as Figure 3 and Figure 4 180, 182, 184. Figures 8 to 10 The pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100 are shown pivoting in a scissor-like manner due to the posture in which the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100 are installed between the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 and the cabinet mounting hardware 20. In one embodiment, one articulated busbar assembly 100 transmits power (such as 12 volts DC) between the first member 40 and the second member 50, while the other articulated busbar assembly 100 is used for a ground return between the first member 40 and the second member 50.

[0045] Fig.11A second embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 200 is shown. The articulated busbar assembly 200 is the same as the articulated busbar assembly 100, except that the first extension busbar 130 and the second extension busbar 140 include embossments 239, 249, respectively, which are added to the sides of the extension busbars 130, 140 along the length of the first extension busbar 130 and the second extension busbar 140 to increase the rigidity of the extension busbars 130, 140. In the illustrated embodiment, each embossment 239, 249 is linear and extends from near the first end 131, 141 to near the respective second end 132, 142. The embossments 239, 249 can take a variety of shapes (such as, but not limited to, a curve, a corrugated shape, a sawtooth shape, etc.) and need not have the same shape. In addition, the embossments 239, 249 can form multiple embossments that overlap along the length of the extension busbars 130, 140. For example, but not limited to, an upper embossing extends from near the first end 131 , 141 to just past a midpoint of the extended busbars 130 , 140 , while a lower embossing extends from near the second end 132 , 142 to just past the midpoint of the extended busbars 130 , 140 .

[0046] Fig.12 A third embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 300 is shown. The articulated busbar assembly 300 includes a pair of identical articulated busbar assemblies 100 positioned adjacent to each other (e.g., one directly above the other). Although shown as a top busbar assembly 100 and a bottom busbar assembly 100, the pair of busbar assemblies 100 may be side by side. Each articulated busbar assembly 100 is connected to the first member 40 at its first end and to the second member 50 at its second end. The pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100 are spaced apart from each other so that a space is formed between the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100 along the length of the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100. Each articulated busbar assembly 100 provides its own conductive path between the first member 40 and the second member 50. The articulated busbar assembly 300 also includes a pair of insulating fixtures 390 that secure the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100 together in position, thereby ensuring that the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 100 rotate together. The first fixing device 390 generally surrounds the two first extension busbars 130 to fix the two first extension busbars 130 together in position and the second fixing device 390 generally surrounds the two second extension busbars 140 to fix the two second extension busbars 140 together in position, thereby ensuring that each articulated busbar assembly 100 rotates together. The fixing device 390 can be a strip, a belt, etc. Each fixing device 390 can be generally O-shaped and positioned around the two extension busbars 130, 140 respectively.

[0047] Fig.13The hinged busbar assembly 300 is shown positioned within the cabinet mounting hardware 20 so that the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 is movable within the cabinet mounting hardware 20 and still connects power when fully extended. The first member 40 is mounted on the sliding insertable / extractable unit 30 and the second member 50 is mounted on the cabinet mounting hardware 20. Although only one hinged busbar assembly 300 is shown in FIG. Fig.10 , but it will be understood that more articulated busbar assemblies 300 may be used as needed / required. In one embodiment, one articulated busbar assembly 100 of the articulated busbar assembly 300 transmits power (such as 12 volts DC) between the first member 40 and the second member 50, while another articulated busbar assembly 100 of the articulated busbar assembly 300 is used for the ground return between the first member 40 and the second member 50.

[0048] Fig.14 A fourth embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 400 is shown. The articulated busbar assembly 400 includes a pair of identical articulated busbar assemblies 200 positioned adjacent to each other (e.g., one directly above the other). Although shown as a top and bottom busbar assembly 200, the two busbar assemblies 200 can be side by side. Each articulated busbar assembly 200 is connected to the first member 40 at its first end and to the second member 50 at its second end. The pair of articulated busbar assemblies 200 are spaced apart from each other so that a space is formed between the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 200 along the length of the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 200. Each articulated busbar assembly 200 provides its own conductive path between the first member 40 and the second member 50. The articulated busbar assembly 400 then also includes a pair of insulating fixtures 490 that fix the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 200 together in position, thereby ensuring that the pair of articulated busbar assemblies 200 rotate together. The first fixture 490 is generally H-shaped and positioned in the space between the two first extension bus bars 130 to secure them together in position, while the second fixture 490 is generally H-shaped and positioned in the space between the two second extension bus bars 140 to secure the two second extension bus bars 140 together in position, thereby ensuring that the articulated bus bar assemblies 200 will rotate together. Fig.11 The fixing device 390 can be used in this fourth embodiment to replace the fixing device 490; Fig.11 The fixing device 490 can be used in the third embodiment instead of the fixing device 390.

[0049] Fig.15 and Fig.16A fifth embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 500 is shown. Articulated busbar assembly 500 is identical to articulated busbar assembly 100 except that the generally cylindrical extensions 114, 124, 133, 134, 143, 144 are enlarged such that each cylindrical extension 114, 124, 133, 134, 143, 144 mounts a pair of conductive contacts 170 therein. The use of a pair of conductive contacts 170 in each cylindrical extension 114, 124, 133, 134, 143, 144 allows for a high current capability versus a single conductive contact.

[0050] Fig.17 A sixth embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 600 is shown. The articulated busbar assembly 600 includes first and second mounting busbars 610, 620, first and second extension busbars 630, 640, three studs 650, three retaining clips 160, and twelve conductive contacts 170 (not shown).

[0051] The busbars 610 and 620 may be installed in various ways.

[0052] exist Fig.17 In a first embodiment shown, the first mounting busbar 610 is generally L-shaped in shape and has: a first leg 611, which is fixed to the first member 40 at a fixed connection by suitable means (such as bolts, screws, rivets, etc.); and a second leg 612, which extends generally perpendicular to the first leg 611. The second leg 612 has a free end 613. A generally cylindrical extension 614 extends outwardly from the middle of the free end 613. The generally cylindrical extension 614 has an opening (not shown) disposed therethrough, and the opening defines an inner wall (not shown) of the generally cylindrical extension 614. The second mounting busbar 620 is generally L-shaped in shape and has: a first leg 621, which is fixed to the second member 50 at a fixed connection by suitable means (such as bolts, screws, rivets, etc.); and a second leg 622, which extends generally perpendicular to the first leg 621. The second foot portion 622 has a free end 623. A first substantially cylindrical extension portion 624a and a second substantially cylindrical extension portion 624b extend outwardly from the upper and lower portions of the free end 623, respectively. Each substantially cylindrical extension portion 624a, 624b has an opening (not shown) disposed through an inner wall (not shown) defining the substantially cylindrical extension portion 624a, 624b.

[0053] Alternatively, the busbars 610, 620 may be installed using Figures 4 to 7 The form shown.

[0054] The first extension busbar 630 is generally straight in shape and has a first free end 631 and an opposite second free end 632. The side surface of the first extension busbar 630 between the two ends 631, 632 may be flat or may have a Fig.11 The first generally cylindrical extension 633a and the second generally cylindrical extension 633b extend outwardly from the upper and lower portions of the free end 631, respectively, and the generally cylindrical extensions 634a, 634b extend outwardly from the upper and lower portions of the second free end 632, respectively. Each generally cylindrical extension 633a, 633b, 634a, 634b has an opening (not shown) disposed through an inner wall (not shown) defining the generally cylindrical extension 633a, 633b, 634a, 634b. The generally cylindrical extension 614 of the first mounting busbar 610 is located between the generally cylindrical extensions 633a, 633b of the first extension busbar 630 so that their openings are aligned with each other.

[0055] The second extension busbar 640 has a first free end 641 and an opposite second free end 642. The side surface of the second extension busbar 640 between the two ends 641, 642 may be flat or may have a Fig.11 embossing shown. A generally cylindrical extension 643 extends outwardly from a middle portion of the first free end 641 and a generally cylindrical extension 644 extends outwardly from a middle portion of the second free end 642. Each generally cylindrical extension 643, 644 has an opening (not shown) disposed through an inner wall (not shown) defining the generally cylindrical extension 643, 644. The generally cylindrical extension 643 of the second extension bus 640 is located between the generally cylindrical extensions 634a, 634b of the first extension bus 630 so that their openings are aligned with each other. The generally cylindrical extension 644 of the second extension bus 640 is located between the generally cylindrical extensions 624a, 624b of the second mounting bus 620 so that their openings are aligned with each other.

[0056] Each cylindrical extension 624a, 624b, 633a, 633b, 634a, 634b has one of the conductive contacts 170 fixed to the respective inner wall within the respective opening. Each cylindrical extension 614, 643, 644 has a pair of conductive contacts 170 fixed to the respective inner wall within the respective opening. The use of a pair of conductive contacts 170 in each cylindrical extension 614, 643, 644 allows a high current capability relative to a single conductive contact.

[0057] The first connection 180 is formed by inserting one of the pins 150 through the aligned openings and conductive contacts 170 of the cylindrical extensions 614, 633a, 633b of the first mounting busbar 610 and the first extension busbar 630 and secured in place by one of the retaining clips 160, thereby not only mechanically but also electrically connecting the first mounting busbar 610 and the first extension busbar 630. It will be appreciated that the cylindrical extensions 633a, 633b may instead extend from the first mounting busbar 610 and the cylindrical extension 614 may instead extend from the first extension busbar 630 to form the first connection 180. The second connection 182 is formed by inserting the second pin 150 therein through the aligned openings and conductive contacts 170 of the cylindrical extensions 624a, 624b, 644 of the second mounting busbar 620 and the second extension busbar 640 and being secured in place by one of the retaining clips 160, thereby not only mechanically but also electrically connecting the second mounting busbar 620 and the second extension busbar 640. It will be appreciated that the cylindrical extensions 624a, 624b may alternatively extend from the second extension busbar 640 and the cylindrical extension 644 may alternatively extend from the second mounting busbar 620 to form the second connection 182.

[0058] The third connection 184 is formed by inserting the third pin 150 therein through the aligned openings and the conductive contacts 170 of the cylindrical extensions 634a, 634b, 643 of the first and second extension busbars 630, 640 and being secured in place by one of the retaining clips 160, thereby connecting the first and second extension busbars 630, 640 not only mechanically but also electrically at the third connection 184. It will be appreciated that the cylindrical extensions 634a, 634b may alternatively extend from the second extension busbar 640 and the cylindrical extension 643 may alternatively extend from the first extension busbar 630 to form the third connection 184. The first connection 180, the second connection 182 and the third connection 184 thus act like hinges, so that the first and second extension busbars 630, 640 are also able to rotate and always maintain an electrical connection.

[0059] Fig.18A seventh embodiment of an articulating busbar assembly 700 is shown. Articulating busbar assembly 700 is identical to articulating busbar assembly 600 except that a pair of first extension busbars 630 and a pair of second extension busbars 640 (and associated / required studs 150, retaining clips 160, and conductive contacts 170) are provided. Thus, articulating busbar assembly 700 is configured to have, in order, a first mounting busbar 610, a first first extension busbar 630 therein, a first second extension busbar 640 therein, a second first extension busbar 630 therein (with a fourth pivot connection 186 disposed therebetween), a second second extension busbar 640 therein (with a fifth pivot connection 188 disposed therebetween), and a second mounting busbar 620. The connections 180, 182, 184, 186, 188 thus act like hinges, so that both the first extension busbar 630 and the second extension busbar 640 are equally capable of rotating and always maintaining an electrical connection. Figures 2 to 17 Embodiments may also have multiple extension bus bars.

[0060] Fig.19 The articulating busbar assembly 700 is shown in a horizontal position. As the articulating busbar assembly 700 pivots about the pivot connections 180, 182, 184, 186, 188, the articulating busbar assembly 700 folds upon itself. Figures 2 to 18 Each articulated busbar assembly 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 is shown in a vertical position, it will be understood that the articulated busbar assembly 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 may also be in a vertical position. Fig.19 Also set up in a horizontal position.

[0061] Fig. 20 FIG. 8 is an eighth embodiment of an articulated busbar assembly 800. In addition to the plurality of insulating fixtures 890 providing a cable 892 for passing through the articulated busbar assembly 800 and the plurality of extension busbars 130, 140 disposed between the mounting busbars 110, 120, the eighth embodiment of the articulated busbar assembly 800 is similar to the eighth embodiment of the articulated busbar assembly 800. Fig.12 or Fig.14 The articulated busbar assemblies 300, 400 are identical. Although a plurality of extension busbars 130, 140 are shown, only one pair of extension busbars 130, 140 may be provided. Fig.12 The articulated busbar assembly 300 is shown in Fig. 20 In the embodiment and in Fig. 20 Similar reference numerals are used in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0062] Each fixture 890 is insulated and secures two articulated busbar assemblies 100 together in position, thereby ensuring that the two articulated busbar assemblies 100 rotate together. Each fixture 890 is positioned in the space between the two busbar assemblies 100 to secure the two busbar assemblies 100 together in position, thereby ensuring that each articulated busbar assemblies 200 will rotate together. Each fixture 890 is generally H-shaped, having: a crossbar 894 that extends through the space between the two extension busbars 130; a first portion 896 that extends from a first end of the crossbar 894; and a second portion 898 that extends from an opposite second end of the crossbar 894. The crossbar 894 extends from a middle portion of the first portion 896 and a middle portion of the second portion 898. The crossbar 894 can be formed by a plurality of adjacent parallel ribs. The second portion 898 of each fixture 890 has a central passage 900 extending between opposite ends of the fixture 890.

[0063] The eighth embodiment of the articulated bus assembly 800 also includes a cable 892 that extends along the length of the articulated bus assembly 800, and in one embodiment, the cable 892 is a twin-axial cable. The cable 892 is used to carry signals, such as high-speed signals, between the components 40, 50. Alternatively, the cable 892 can be used to carry power between the components 40, 50. Alternatively, the cable 892 can be used to carry signals and power between the components 40, 50.

[0064] In one embodiment, the plurality of fixtures 890 are reversed in adjacent extension busbars 130, 140 such that a first portion 896 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension busbar 130 is adjacent to a second portion 898 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension busbar 140, and such that a second portion 898 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension busbar 130 is adjacent to a first portion 896 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension busbar 140. The cable 892 extends through each central passage 900 and also extends through a recess 904 on each extension busbar 130, 140 proximate the end of the fixture 890. Thus, in this embodiment, the cable 892 "snakes" through the articulating busbar assembly 800 such that the cable 892 passes through the busbar 130 along one side of the articulating busbar assembly 800 and then passes through the busbar 140 along the opposite side of the articulating busbar assembly 800. In another embodiment, the plurality of fixtures 890 are all oriented in the same direction so that the first portion 896 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension bus 130 is adjacent to the first portion 896 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension bus 140 and the second portion 898 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension bus 130 is adjacent to the second portion 898 of the fixture 890 disposed on the extension bus 140. The cables 892 extend through each of the central passages 900 along the same side of the articulated bus assembly 800. In this embodiment, the recess 904 can be eliminated.

[0065] A printed circuit board 906 is mounted on the first member 40 ( Fig. 20 A printed circuit board 908 is mounted on the second member 50 (not shown) and is accessible to the first mounting bus 110. Fig. 20 890) and accessible to the second mounting bus 120. As an example, each printed circuit board 906, 908 can be a 16DP Robust NearStack Module - 144DP 34AWG TwinAx - 9 connector. The ends of the cable 892 can be suitably connected to the printed circuit boards 906, 908 at the connectors. It will be understood that although a single cable 892 and its connector and a printed circuit board 906, 908 at each end are provided, multiple cables 892, multiple connectors and associated printed circuit boards 906, 908 can be routed through the central channel 900 of multiple fixtures 890 to provide additional electrical transmission capabilities that will be accommodated.

[0066] All of the busbars 130, 140, 630, 640 described herein will also preferably have power-coat insulation applied thereto.

[0067] Although retaining clip 160 is provided as a means of securing stud 150 in place, other suitable retaining means may be employed as desired / permitted.

[0068] In addition, the following examples are provided, which are numbered for easier reference.

[0069] 1. An articulated busbar assembly for providing an electrical connection between a first component and a second component, comprising: a first mounting busbar configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first component at a fixed connection; a second mounting busbar configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second component at a fixed connection; and at least two extension buses extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar, wherein two adjacent extension buses are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a pivot connection.

[0070] 2. An articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 1, wherein each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from each adjacent busbar and at least one conductive contact member installed in each extension portion and a pin inserted through the conductive contact member.

[0071] 3. An articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 2, wherein each extension portion is cylindrical.

[0072] 4. The articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 1, wherein each conductive contact is an elastic contact.

[0073] 5. An articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 1, wherein at least one of the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar is L-shaped, and wherein each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from an adjacent busbar and at least one conductive contact member installed in each extension portion and a pin inserted through the conductive contact member.

[0074] 6. An articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 1, wherein at least one of the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar is formed as a flat plate, and wherein each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from an adjacent busbar and at least one conductive contact member installed in each extension portion and a pin inserted through the conductive contact member, and wherein the at least one extension portion extending from at least one of the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar extends from a middle portion of the plate.

[0075] 7. An articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 1, wherein at least one of the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar is formed as a flat plate, wherein each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from an adjacent busbar and at least one conductive contact member installed in each extension portion and a pin inserted through the conductive contact member, and wherein the at least one extension portion extending from at least one of the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar extends from an edge of the plate.

[0076] 8. The articulated busbar assembly of Example 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of busbars has an embossment extending along at least a portion of its length.

[0077] 9. The articulated bus assembly as described in Example 1 further includes: a third mounting bus configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first component at a fixed connection; a fourth mounting bus configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second component at a fixed connection; and at least two extension buses extending between the third mounting bus and the fourth mounting bus, wherein adjacent extension buses extending between the third mounting bus and the fourth mounting bus are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a pivot connection.

[0078] 10. The articulated bus assembly as described in Example 9 further includes: a first insulating fixing device connected between one of the extension bus bars extending between the first mounting bus bar and the second mounting bus bar and one of the extension bus bars extending between the third mounting bus bar and the fourth mounting bus bar; and a second insulating fixing device connected between one of the second extension bus bars extending between the first mounting bus bar and the second mounting bus bar and one of the second extension bus bars extending between the third mounting bus bar and the fourth mounting bus bar.

[0079] 11. An articulated busbar assembly as described in Example 10, wherein each securing device includes a channel therethrough and further includes a cable extending through the channel.

[0080] 12. The articulated busbar assembly of Example 10, wherein each securing device is generally H-shaped.

[0081] 13. The articulated busbar assembly of Example 12, wherein each securing device includes a channel therethrough and further includes a cable extending through the channel.

[0082] 14. The articulated bus assembly as described in Example 9 further includes: a first insulating fixing device extending around one of the extension buses extending between the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus and one of the extension buses extending between the third mounting bus and the fourth mounting bus; and a second insulating fixing device extending around one of the second extension buses extending between the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus and one of the second extension buses extending between the third mounting bus and the fourth mounting bus.

[0083] 15. An assembly comprising: a first member; a second member; and an articulated busbar assembly. The articulated busbar assembly comprises: a first mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a first fixed connection; a second mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a second fixed connection; and at least two extension busbars extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar, wherein two adjacent extension busbars are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a first pivot connection, wherein one of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the first mounting busbar at a second pivot connection, and wherein another of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the second mounting busbar at a third pivot connection.

[0084] 16. The component as described in Example 15 also includes: a sliding insertable / extractable unit, the first component is mounted on the sliding insertable / extractable unit; and a cabinet mounting hardware, the second component is mounted on the cabinet mounting hardware.

[0085] 17. The assembly of example 15, wherein the first component is one of a midplane, a backplane, a daughter card, and a chassis, and the second component is one of a midplane, a backplane, a daughter card, and a chassis.

[0086] 18. The articulated busbar assembly of Example 15, wherein each pivot connection comprises at least one extension extending from an adjacent busbar and at least one conductive contact mounted in each extension and a pin inserted through the conductive contact.

[0087] 19. The component as described in Example 15 further includes a second articulated bus assembly, wherein the second articulated bus assembly includes: a third mounting bus mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a third fixed connection; a fourth mounting bus mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a fourth fixed connection; and at least two extension buses extending between the third mounting bus and the fourth mounting bus, wherein adjacent extension buses of the second articulated bus assembly are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a fourth pivot connection, wherein one of the at least two extension buses is mechanically and electrically connected to the third mounting bus at a fifth pivot connection, and wherein another of the at least two extension buses is mechanically and electrically connected to the fourth mounting bus at a sixth pivot connection.

[0088] 20. The component as described in Example 19 further includes: a first insulating fixing device, which is connected between one of the extended bus bars of the first defined articulated bus bar component and one of the extended bus bars of the second articulated bus bar component; and a second insulating fixing device, which is connected between one of the second extended bus bars of the first defined articulated bus bar component and one of the second extended bus bars of the second articulated bus bar component.

[0089] It will be understood that many modifications of the exemplary embodiments described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art, such as, but not limited to, the number / position of the conductive contacts 170, the number and configuration of the busbars used, the number of connection locations provided, and many variations and modifications of the combinations of the features disclosed herein disclosed or claimed herein, expressly including additional combinations of these features or alternatively other types of busbars. In addition, there are many possible variations in materials and configurations.

[0090] The disclosure provided herein illustrates features by means of preferred and exemplary embodiments thereof. Numerous other embodiments, modifications and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to persons of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.

Claims

1. An articulated busbar assembly for providing an electrical connection between a first component and a second component, comprising: A first articulated busbar assembly, comprising: a first mounting busbar configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a fixed connection; a second mounting busbar configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a fixed connection; at least two extension busbars extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar, wherein two adjacent extension busbars are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a pivot connection; and A second articulated busbar assembly, comprising: a third mounting busbar configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a fixed connection; a fourth mounting busbar configured to be mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a fixed connection; and At least two extension bus bars extend between the third mounting bus bar and the fourth mounting bus bar, wherein adjacent extension bus bars extending between the third mounting bus bar and the fourth mounting bus bar are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a pivot connection, wherein the first articulated bus bar assembly and the second articulated bus bar assembly are positioned adjacent to each other, and the articulated bus bar assembly further comprises an insulating fixing device, which fixes the first articulated bus bar assembly and the second articulated bus bar assembly together in position so that the first articulated bus bar assembly and the second articulated bus bar assembly rotate together.

2. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, in, Each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from each adjacent bus bar, at least one conductive contact piece installed in each extension portion, and a pin inserted through the conductive contact piece.

3. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 2, wherein: Each extension portion is cylindrical.

4. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, wherein: Each conductive contact piece is an elastic contact piece.

5. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus is L-shaped, and wherein each pivot connection includes at least one extension extending from an adjacent bus and at least one conductive contact mounted in each extension, and a pin inserted through the conductive contact.

6. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus is formed as a flat plate, and wherein each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from an adjacent bus and at least one conductive contact member installed in each extension portion, and a pin inserted through the conductive contact member, and the at least one extension portion extending from at least one of the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus extends from a middle portion of the plate.

7. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus is formed as a flat plate, wherein each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension extending from an adjacent bus and at least one conductive contact mounted in each extension and a pin inserted through the conductive contact, and the at least one extension extending from at least one of the first mounting bus and the second mounting bus extends from an edge of the plate.

8. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the busbars has an embossment extending along at least a portion of its length.

9. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The insulating fixture includes: a first insulating fixture connected between one of the extension busbars extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar and one of the extension busbars extending between the third mounting busbar and the fourth mounting busbar; and a second insulating fixture connected between one of the second extension busbars extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar and one of the second extension busbars extending between the third mounting busbar and the fourth mounting busbar.

10. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 9, wherein: Each fixture includes a passage therethrough and also includes a cable extending through the passage.

11. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 9, wherein: Each fixing device is generally H-shaped.

12. The articulated busbar assembly according to claim 11, wherein: Each fixture includes a passage therethrough and also includes a cable extending through the passage.

13. The articulated busbar assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a first insulating fixture extending around one of the extension busbars extending between the first installation busbar and the second installation busbar and one of the extension busbars extending between the third installation busbar and the fourth installation busbar; and a second insulating fixture extending around a second extension busbar extending between the first installation busbar and the second installation busbar and a second extension busbar extending between the third installation busbar and the fourth installation busbar.

14. A connection assembly comprising: a first component; a second member; A first articulated busbar assembly, comprising: a first mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a first fixed connection; a second mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a second fixed connection; and at least two extension busbars extending between the first mounting busbar and the second mounting busbar, wherein two adjacent extension busbars are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a first pivot connection, wherein one of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the first mounting busbar at a second pivot connection, and wherein another of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the second mounting busbar at a third pivot connection; and a second articulated busbar assembly, the second articulated busbar assembly comprising: a third mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the first member at a third fixed connection; a fourth mounting busbar mechanically and electrically connected to the second member at a fourth fixed connection; and at least two extension busbars extending between the third mounting busbar and the fourth mounting busbar, wherein adjacent extension busbars of the second articulated busbar assembly are mechanically and electrically connected to each other at a fourth pivot connection, wherein one of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the third mounting busbar at a fifth pivot connection, and wherein another of the at least two extension busbars is mechanically and electrically connected to the fourth mounting busbar at a sixth pivot connection, Wherein, the first articulated bus assembly and the second articulated bus assembly are positioned adjacent to each other, and the articulated bus assembly also includes an insulating fixing device, which fixes the first articulated bus assembly and the second articulated bus assembly together so that the first articulated bus assembly and the second articulated bus assembly rotate together.

15. The connection assembly of claim 14, further comprising: a slidably insertable / extractable unit, wherein the first member is mounted on the slidably insertable / extractable unit; and a cabinet mounting hardware, the second component being mounted on the cabinet mounting hardware.

16. The connection assembly of claim 14, wherein: The first component is one of a middle plane, a backplane, a daughter card and a chassis, and the second component is one of a middle plane, a backplane, a daughter card and a chassis.

17. The connection assembly according to claim 14, in, Each pivot connection portion includes at least one extension portion extending from an adjacent bus bar and at least one conductive contact piece installed in each extension portion, and a pin inserted through the conductive contact piece.

18. The connection assembly of claim 14, wherein: The insulating fixing device includes: a first insulating fixing device, which is connected between one of the extended busbars of the first articulated busbar assembly and one of the extended busbars of the second articulated busbar assembly; and a second insulating fixing device, which is connected between a second extended busbar of the first articulated busbar assembly and a second extended busbar of the second articulated busbar assembly.

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