Superconducting connector assembly and method of assembly and disassembly

Abstract

According to an aspect, there is provided a superconducting connector assembly for electrically connecting a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector assembly comprising: at least one first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving one end of the first superconducting cable; at least one second superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one second opening for receiving one end of a second superconducting cable; and a surrounding portion configured to receive and surround the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, in which the first opening and the second opening overlap when the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are received in the surrounding portion, the enclosure is made of a material having a different coefficient of thermal expansion than that of the first and second superconducting cable terminals such that the first and second superconducting cable terminals are compressed together and form an electrical interface at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to superconducting connector assemblies and assembly and disassembly methods. In particular, although not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to the use of superconducting connector assemblies and assembly and disassembly methods in nuclear fusion reactors. Background Art

[0002] A tokamak is a nuclear fusion reactor that can confine a mixture of deuterium and tritium in the form of a plasma by means of a magnetic field with a toroidal geometry. A spherical tokamak is a compact version in which the radius is smallest at the center of the torus. Such a compact arrangement is still topologically a torus, but is called a spherical tokamak because of its spherical appearance.

[0003] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a previously proposed Tokamak arrangement is shown. Superconducting magnet assemblies 1, 2, 3 are arranged around an annular vacuum vessel 4. The superconducting magnet assemblies 1, 2, 3 may be formed of superconducting cables.

[0004] The superconducting magnet assembly 1 includes a toroidal field coil extending around a cross section of the toroidal vacuum vessel 4. A plurality of such toroidal field coils may be provided and may be distributed approximately on the circumference of the toroidal vacuum vessel 4. The toroidal field coil provides a magnetic field having field lines circulating around the center of the toroidal vacuum vessel 4, helping to contain the plasma.

[0005] The superconducting magnet assembly 2 includes poloidal field coils extending approximately on the circumference of the annular vacuum vessel 4. A plurality of such poloidal field coils may be provided and they may be distributed along the central axis of the annular vacuum vessel 4. The poloidal field coils help to shape and stabilize the plasma.

[0006] The superconducting magnet assembly 3 includes a central solenoid extending through the center of the annular vacuum vessel 4. The central solenoid can induce an electric current in the plasma, thereby heating the plasma.

[0007] The advantage of a spherical tokamak is its compact nature, which is expected to reduce capital costs. Other advantages include attractive plasma physics characteristics. The key efficiency parameter is called β, which is the ratio of the thermal energy density stored in the plasma to the thermal energy density stored in the confining magnetic field. A spherical tokamak can accommodate much higher values ​​of β than a conventional tokamak because it can contain a high ratio of plasma current to magnetic field.

[0008] However, the more compact arrangement of the spherical tokamak brings challenges. For example, there may not be enough shielding space to allow the magnet assemblies 1, 2, 3 to survive the entire life of the reactor. Therefore, the magnet assembly and its superconducting cable may be required to be replaced during the life of the reactor. Therefore, it is desirable to allow access to the magnet assembly. To this end, it has been proposed to provide a disconnectable, easily detachable or reinstallable joint for the superconducting cable to allow the magnet assembly to be disassembled. However, the previously proposed superconducting cable joints are not easy to disconnect (for example, by remote means) and will increase the resistance that affects its superconducting performance. Summary of the invention

[0009] According to a first specific aspect, there is provided a superconducting connector assembly for electrically connecting a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector assembly comprising:

[0010] at least one first superconducting cable terminal, the first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving an end of a first superconducting cable;

[0011] at least one second superconducting cable terminal, the second superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one second opening for receiving an end of a second superconducting cable; and

[0012] an enclosing portion configured to receive and enclose the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal,

[0013] wherein, when the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are received in the surrounding portion, the first opening and the second opening overlap,

[0014] The surrounding portion is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient different from that of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are compressed together at the operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly and form an electrical interface.

[0015] The first opening and the second opening may overlap in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the first opening and the second opening. The first opening and the second opening (and thus the first superconducting cable and the second superconducting cable) may extend side by side with each other. The longitudinal axes of the first opening and the second opening (and thus the first superconducting cable and the second superconducting cable) may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0016] The dimensions of the first and second superconducting cable terminals and the enclosure may allow the superconducting connector assembly to be assembled at room temperature (-298 K). The enclosure may shrink so that the first and second superconducting cable terminals are compressed together at a cryogenic temperature, for example, below about 100 K.

[0017] The first opening and the second opening may be wider than the ends of the corresponding first and second superconducting cables. The first and second superconducting cables may be soldered into the first and second openings, for example, using indium-based solder. The solder may be soft (relative to the terminals) to minimize stress in the terminals that is transferred to the superconducting cables.

[0018] The superconducting connector assembly can be used in a nuclear reactor, such as a nuclear fusion reactor, in particular a Tokamak reactor. The reactor may include a superconducting connector assembly. The superconducting connector assembly can be used in other superconducting applications, such as MRI, NMR, particle accelerators, or any other application requiring a superconducting connector.

[0019] The superconducting connector assembly can provide an excellent electrical connection between the first superconducting cable and the second superconducting cable without compromising superconducting performance, for example due to the contact pressure obtained between the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal. Compressive stress can not be transferred to the first superconducting cable and the second superconducting cable, which may otherwise reduce their superconducting performance.

[0020] The superconducting connector assembly can also provide a compact arrangement. Such a compact arrangement may be beneficial for nuclear fusion reactors that require densely arranged superconducting cables to generate the necessary magnetic field. The superconducting connector assembly can also be easily disassembled and reassembled during reactor maintenance. The compact arrangement can leave enough space between each superconducting connector assembly to mechanically separate and reinstall the connection.

[0021] The components of the superconducting connector assembly may be formed of materials that are not activated (eg, not induced to be radioactive) in a radioactive environment. The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may be formed of copper (such as oxygen-free high-conductivity copper). The enclosure may be formed of aluminum.

[0022] The first superconducting cable terminal may be configured to surround the second superconducting cable terminal. The first superconducting cable terminal may be concentric with the second superconducting cable terminal. The first superconducting cable terminal and / or the second superconducting cable terminal may be concentric with the surrounding portion. The superconducting connector assembly may also include a sleeve. The second superconducting terminal may surround the sleeve. The sleeve may be concentric with the first superconducting terminal and / or the second superconducting terminal. The sleeve may define a coolant channel. The sleeve may be formed of stainless steel, Invar steel, or any other material that shrinks less than the first superconducting cable terminal and / or the second superconducting cable terminal.

[0023] The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may be configured to be arranged side by side with each other, for example, neither the first superconducting cable terminal nor the second superconducting cable terminal surrounds the other of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal. The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may have substantially the same cross-sectional shape, for example, they may be rectangular. The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may have substantially the same size.

[0024] The superconducting connector assembly may include a first pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals and a second pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals. An electrical insulator may be provided between the first and second pairs of first and second superconducting cable terminals and the second pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals. Additional pairs of first and second superconducting cable terminals may be provided, for example, where an insulator is provided between adjacent pairs. At least one additional insulator may be provided between the enclosure and the first and second superconducting cable terminals. One or more insulators and / or additional insulators may be formed of stainless steel.

[0025] The superconducting connector assembly may further include a mechanical fixture or assembly configured to mechanically clamp the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal together. The mechanical fixture may be configured to provide a prestress or contact pressure that may compress the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the enclosure, for example, before the enclosure is thermally shrunk. Additionally or alternatively, the mechanical fixture may absorb any slack that may occur, for example, due to manufacturing tolerances.

[0026] The mechanical fixing device may include at least one wedge. When the wedge is inserted between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal and the surrounding portion, the taper angle of the wedge may compress the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the surrounding portion.

[0027] The superconducting connector assembly may further include at least one locking feature configured to lock or secure at least one wedge to an insertion position in which the wedge may be inserted between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal and the surrounding portion. The locking feature may include at least one screw that engages with the surrounding portion (or another component) and may provide a reaction force to hold the at least one wedge in place. A single locking feature may be configured to lock or secure multiple wedges to an insertion position.

[0028] The locking feature may include at least one screw that may extend in substantially the same direction as the first opening and the second opening.

[0029] The locking feature may include a locking member that may include extending arms that may engage a corresponding wedge. The locking member includes radially extending arms and may be cross-shaped, star-shaped, or the like.

[0030] The locking feature may include a reaction portion engaged with one end of the enclosure. The locking member may engage with one or more wedges at the other end of the enclosure. A screw may couple the locking member to the reaction portion. The locking feature may include an insulator extending between the first pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals and the second pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals. The screw may engage with the insulator between the first pair of superconducting cable terminals and the second pair of superconducting cable terminals. The reaction portion may be a portion of the insulator. The screw may extend in the same direction as the cable opening.

[0031] The mechanical fixing means may include at least one screw. The screw may engage and extend through the enclosure so as to compress the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the enclosure when tightened. One or more screws may extend in a transverse direction (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first opening and the second opening). For example, the screw may extend through a side wall of the enclosure.

[0032] The mechanical fixture may include at least one pair of opposing wedges, one of which may be linearly movable relative to the other wedge so that the respective wedge surfaces slide relative to each other and so that the lateral dimensions of the pair of opposing wedges change. The mechanical fixture may include a plurality of opposing wedge pairs arranged in a sawtooth pattern.

[0033] The mechanical fixing means may include any other mechanical means, such as an over-center cam, a plunger, or the like.

[0034] The mechanical fixture may be configured to be engaged or disengaged by a remote tool, for example, remotely from the connector assembly with the superconducting cable in place. The locking feature may be configured to be engaged or disengaged by a remote tool, for example, remotely from the connector assembly with the superconducting cable in place. Since the connector assembly may operate in a radioactive environment, it is advantageous to remotely connect or disconnect the connector assembly.

[0035] The superconducting connector assembly may include at least one coolant channel configured to allow a coolant to flow through the superconducting connector assembly. The coolant may include a cryogenic fluid. At least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may include a coolant channel. The sleeve may define the coolant channel. At least one coolant channel may be formed by a gap between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal and the surrounding portion.

[0036] The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may be interlocked relative to each other. For example, one (or both) of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may include a protruding portion, and the other (or both) of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may include a receiving portion. The receiving portion may be configured to receive the protruding portion. The electrical interface may be provided by a surface on the opposing protruding portion and a surface on the receiving portion.

[0037] The superconducting connector assembly may include a plurality of first superconducting cable terminals and a plurality of second superconducting cable terminals. The superconducting connector assembly may include a plurality of pairs of first superconducting cable terminals and second superconducting cable terminals. The plurality of pairs of first superconducting cable terminals and second superconducting cable terminals may be distributed in a circular arrangement. The plurality of pairs of first superconducting cable terminals and second superconducting cable terminals may be distributed at equal angles in the circular arrangement. Each pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals may form a truncated sector of the circular arrangement. The enclosing portion may enclose the plurality of pairs of first and second superconducting cable terminals distributed in the circular arrangement.

[0038] At least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may include a conductive portion and an insulating portion. The conductive portion may provide at least a portion of an electrical interface. The insulating portion of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may be provided at least at an interface between adjacent pairs of first superconducting cable terminals and second superconducting cable terminals.

[0039] The enclosure may include at least one rib. The rib may be a hardening rib that hardens the enclosure. The rib may increase the surface area of ​​the enclosure and may increase the heat transfer rate, for example, from a cryogenic fluid. The rib may be positioned to engage with a groove or rib of an adjacent superconducting connector assembly. One or more ribs may aid in hardening, cooling, and / or inlaying.

[0040] The superconducting connector assembly can be configured to be substantially inlaid with other superconducting connector assemblies. The surrounding portion can include one or more ribs. One of the ribs can be configured to cooperate with a groove or another rib of an adjacent superconducting connector assembly.

[0041] According to a second specific aspect, there is provided an assembly comprising a plurality of the above-mentioned superconducting connector assemblies. The superconducting connector assemblies can be inlaid with each other.

[0042] According to a third specific aspect, there is provided an assembly comprising the above-mentioned superconducting connector assembly, a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable.

[0043] The assembly may further include solder in the first opening and the second opening. The solder may connect the first superconducting cable and the second superconducting cable to the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, respectively. The solder may have a Young's modulus or hardness smaller than the material of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal. The solder may have a Young's modulus or hardness that is one order of magnitude smaller than the material of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal. The solder may contain indium or a soft solder eutectic-based component. For example, the solder may be primarily based on indium or eutectic.

[0044] According to a fourth specific aspect, a superconducting toroidal field coil assembly is provided, comprising the above-mentioned superconducting connector assembly, the superconducting connector assembly comprising a plurality of pairs of first superconducting cable terminals and second superconducting cable terminals. Each pair of first superconducting cable terminals and second superconducting cable terminals can be configured to connect the ends of the superconducting toroidal field cable together. The superconducting connector assembly can be provided in the center relative to a toroidal container (e.g., for a nuclear fusion reactor).

[0045] According to a fifth specific aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a superconducting connector set to electrically connect a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector comprising:

[0046] at least one first superconducting cable terminal, the first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving an end of a first superconducting cable;

[0047] at least one second superconducting cable terminal, the second superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one second opening for receiving an end of a second superconducting cable; and

[0048] an enclosing portion configured to receive and enclose the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, wherein the enclosing portion is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient different from those of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal,

[0049] Among them, the method includes:

[0050] inserting the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal into the surrounding portion so that the first opening and the second opening overlap; and

[0051] The superconducting connector assembly is cryogenically cooled so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are compressed together and form an electrical interface at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly.

[0052] The method may further include mechanically clamping the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal together to provide a prestress or contact pressure that compresses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the enclosure before cryogenically cooling the superconducting connector assembly.

[0053] The method may further include locking the locking feature to lock or secure the at least one wedge in the inserted position.

[0054] The method may further include welding one end of the first superconducting cable into the first opening of the first superconducting cable terminal before inserting the first and second superconducting cable terminals into the surrounding portion; and welding one end of the second superconducting cable into the second opening of the second superconducting cable terminal.

[0055] According to a sixth specific aspect, there is provided a method of disassembling a superconducting connector assembly to electrically disconnect a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector comprising:

[0056] at least one first superconducting cable terminal, the first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving an end of a first superconducting cable;

[0057] at least one second superconducting cable terminal including at least one second opening for receiving an end portion of the second superconducting cable; and

[0058] an enclosing portion that receives and encloses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal so that the first opening and the second opening overlap, wherein the enclosing portion is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient different from those of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are compressed together at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly and form an electrical interface,

[0059] Among them, the method includes:

[0060] increasing the temperature of the superconducting connector assembly from the operating temperature so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are depressurized; and

[0061] At least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal is loosened or removed from the surrounding portion.

[0062] The method may also include releasing a mechanical clamp that clamps the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal together. The method may also include unlocking the locking feature to unlock or release the at least one wedge from the inserted position.

[0063] These and other aspects will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the one or more embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] Exemplary embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0065] Figure 1It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a previously proposed Tokamak nuclear fusion reactor;

[0066] Figure 2a and Figure 2b (collectively referred to as FIG. 2 ) are a perspective view and a side cross-sectional view, respectively, of a superconducting connector assembly according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0067] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0068] Figure 4a and Figure 4b (collectively referred to as FIG. 4 ) are respectively a cutaway perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0069] Figure 5a and Figure 5b (collectively referred to as FIG. 5 ) are respectively a cutaway perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0070] Figure 6a and Figure 6b (collectively referred to as FIG. 6 ) are respectively a perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0071] Figure 7a and Figure 7b (collectively referred to as FIG. 7 ) are respectively a perspective view and a side cross-sectional view of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0072] Figure 8a , Figure 8b and Figure 8c (collectively referred to as FIG. 8 ) are a cutaway perspective view, a perspective view, and a side cross-sectional view, respectively, of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0073] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a superconducting connector assembly according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0074] Fig.10 is an end view of an array of superconducting connector assemblies according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0075] Fig.11 is a perspective view of an array of superconducting connector assemblies according to another example of the present disclosure;

[0076] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a superconducting connector assembly according to a further example of the present disclosure;

[0077] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional plan view of a superconducting connector assembly according to a further example of the present disclosure;

[0078] Fig.14a and Fig.14b (collectively referred to as FIG. 14 ) is a cross-sectional plan view of a portion of a superconducting connector assembly according to a further example of the present disclosure, Fig.14a shows the disassembled first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, and Fig.14b Shown are a first superconducting cable terminal and a second superconducting cable terminal assembled together;

[0079] Fig.15 is a perspective view of a superconducting toroidal field coil assembly according to a further example of the present disclosure;

[0080] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a superconducting connector assembly according to a further example of the present disclosure;

[0081] Fig.17 is a flowchart depicting an assembly method according to another example of the present disclosure; and

[0082] Fig.18 is a flow chart depicting a disassembly method according to another example of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] With reference to FIG2 , the present disclosure relates to a superconducting connector assembly 100 for electrically connecting a first superconducting cable 102 and a second superconducting cable 104. The superconducting connector assembly 100 can connect superconducting cables of a nuclear reactor (such as a nuclear fusion reactor, in particular a tokamak reactor). The superconducting cables 102, 104 can form magnetic coils that contribute to one or more magnetic fields of the reactor. Accordingly, the components of the superconducting connector assembly 100 can be formed of materials that are not activated (e.g., not induced to be radioactive) in a radioactive environment. However, it is also contemplated that the superconducting connector assembly 100 can be used for other superconductor applications, such as MRI, NMR, particle accelerators, or any other application requiring a superconducting connector.

[0084] The superconducting connector assembly 100 includes a first superconducting cable terminal 110 and a second superconducting cable terminal 120. The first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 are configured to cooperate with each other to form an electrical contact therebetween. In the depicted example, the first superconducting cable terminal 110 surrounds the second superconducting cable terminal 120, for example, the inner surface of the first superconducting cable terminal 110 engages with the outer surface of the second superconducting cable terminal 120. The first superconducting cable terminal 110 may be substantially tubular, in particular having a circular cross-section. The first superconducting cable terminal 110 may be concentric with the second superconducting cable terminal 120. However, as Figure 2bAs shown, the inner surface of the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the outer surface of the second superconducting cable terminal 120 can be tapered (e.g., such that the diameter of each surface varies along the length of the terminal). The tapered surface can facilitate assembly (especially in remote processing) and provide an interference fit.

[0085] The first superconducting cable terminal 110 includes at least one first opening 112 for receiving one end of the first superconducting cable 102. As depicted, a plurality of first openings 112 may be provided, each first opening receiving a corresponding first superconducting cable 102 or a strand / end of a single first superconducting cable including a plurality of strands / ends. The first openings 112 may be distributed around the first superconducting cable terminal 110, for example, the first openings may be distributed at equal angles. The longitudinal axes of the first openings 112 may be substantially parallel to each other. Figure 2b As shown, the first opening 112 may extend all the way through the first superconducting cable terminal 110 so that the first opening 112 is open at both ends, but in an alternative arrangement, the first opening 112 may be closed at one end of the first superconducting cable terminal 110. The first opening 112 may be circular, for example, to receive a round cable type (such as CORC TM ), or substantially square / rectangular to receive CICC (cable-in-conduit) or stacked tape type arrangements.

[0086] Likewise, the second superconducting cable terminal 120 includes at least one second opening 122 for receiving one end of the second superconducting cable 104. As depicted, a plurality of second openings 122 may be provided, each second opening receiving a corresponding second superconducting cable 104 or a strand / end of a single second superconducting cable including a plurality of strands / ends. The second openings 122 may be distributed around the second superconducting cable terminal 120, for example, the second openings may be distributed at equal angles. The longitudinal axes of the second openings 122 may be substantially parallel to each other. The second openings 122 may also be substantially parallel to the first opening 112. Figure 2b As shown, the second opening 122 can extend all the way through the second superconducting cable terminal 120 so that the second opening 122 is open at both ends, but in an alternative arrangement, the second opening 122 can be closed at one end of the second superconducting cable terminal 120. As with the first opening, the second opening 122 can be circular, for example, to receive a round cable type (such as CORC TM ), or substantially square / rectangular to receive a CICC (cable in conduit) or a stacked ribbon arrangement. The first opening 112 and the second opening 122 may have different shapes, for example, so that the superconducting connector assembly provides an interface between different types of superconducting cables.

[0087] The superconducting connector assembly 100 further includes an enclosure 130 configured to receive and enclose the first superconducting cable terminal 110. The enclosure 130 is configured to cooperate with the first superconducting cable terminal 110. In the depicted example, the enclosure 130 encloses the first superconducting cable terminal 110, for example, the inner surface of the enclosure 130 engages with the outer surface of the first superconducting cable terminal 110. The enclosure 130 may be substantially tubular, in particular having a circular cross-section. The enclosure 130 may be concentric with the first superconducting cable terminal 110. The enclosure 130 may include a flange 131 at its end, although such a flange may be omitted, for example, to facilitate embedding.

[0088] The superconducting connector assembly 100 may also include a central portion, such as a sleeve 140. The second superconducting terminal 120 may surround the sleeve 140, for example, the inner surface of the second superconducting cable terminal 120 engages with the outer surface of the sleeve 140. The second superconducting cable terminal 120 may be substantially tubular, in particular having a circular cross-section. The second superconducting cable terminal 120 may be concentric with the sleeve 140. The sleeve 140 may define a channel 142, which may receive a coolant flow. In an alternative arrangement, the sleeve 140 may be replaced with a solid central portion.

[0089] like Figure 2b As best shown, when the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 are assembled in the enclosure 130, the first opening 112 and the second opening 122 overlap. Specifically, the first opening 112 and the second opening 122 (and therefore the cables 102, 104) can overlap in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the first opening and the second opening. The first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104 can extend through most, if not all, of the respective first openings 112 and the second openings 122. Thus, the first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104 can extend side by side for most of the length of the superconducting assembly 100. In this way, a good electrical connection can be provided between the first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104 and their respective first superconducting terminals 110 and the second superconducting terminals 120, and the resistance between the cables is minimized.

[0090] Figure 2b A first superconducting cable 102 and a second superconducting cable 104 are shown extending from opposite ends of the superconducting connector assembly 100, e.g., the first superconducting cable 102 extends from the first end and the second superconducting cable 104 extends from the second end. Thus, the superconducting connector assembly 100 may be disposed between the first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104. However, it is also contemplated that the first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104 may extend from the same end of the superconducting connector assembly 100.

[0091] The dimensions of the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 and the surrounding portion 130 may allow, for example, the superconducting connector assembly 100 to be assembled at standard room temperature (about 298K). However, the surrounding portion 130 has a thermal expansion rate or coefficient different from that of the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120. The difference is that as the superconducting connector assembly 100 cools to an operating temperature (e.g., a low temperature below about 100K), the surrounding portion 130 contracts more than the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120. Due to the relative contraction rate, the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 are compressed together. This improves the performance of the electrical interface at the operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly 100.

[0092] The central portion or sleeve 140 may also have a different coefficient of thermal expansion than the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120. As the temperature decreases, the central portion or sleeve 140 may shrink less than the second superconducting cable terminal 120. For example, as the temperature decreases, the relative shrinkage may cause the second superconducting cable terminal 120 to be compressed against the sleeve 140. In this way, the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 may be compressed between the surrounding portion 130 and the sleeve 140.

[0093] The first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 may be formed of copper (such as oxygen-free high-conductivity copper). The enclosure 130 may be formed of aluminum. The sleeve 140 may be formed of steel (such as stainless steel), Invar alloy, or any other material that shrinks less than the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and / or the second superconducting cable terminal 120.

[0094] Although the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 may be made of the same material and therefore have the same thermal expansion characteristics, it is also contemplated that the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 may be formed of different materials and may have different thermal expansion characteristics. For example, as the temperature decreases, the first superconducting cable terminal 110 may contract at a greater rate than the second superconducting cable terminal 120. As such, due to the relative contraction rates between the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120, cooling of the superconducting connector assembly 100 may result in compression therebetween.

[0095] The size of the first opening 112 and the second opening 122 can be the same size as or wider than the ends of the corresponding first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104 (for example, at standard room temperature or the operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly 100). The first superconducting cable 102 and the second superconducting cable 104 can be soldered to the first opening and the second opening by, for example, solder 114, 124 (such as indium-based or eutectic solder). The solder 114, 124 can be soft (relative to the first superconducting terminal 110 and the second superconducting terminal 120) to minimize the compressive stress in the terminals 110, 120 that is converted to the superconducting cables 102, 104. For example, the solder can have a Young's modulus or hardness value that is smaller than the material of the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120 (at the operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly 100). Specifically, the solder can have a Young's modulus or hardness that is one order of magnitude smaller than the material of the first superconducting cable terminal 110 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120.

[0096] refer to Figure 3 , depicts another example of a superconducting connector assembly 200. The superconducting connector assembly 200 differs from the superconducting connector assembly 100 in that a first superconducting cable terminal 210 and a second superconducting cable terminal 220 are arranged side by side with each other. Specifically, neither the first superconducting cable terminal 210 nor the second superconducting cable terminal 220 surrounds the other of the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220. The surrounding portion 230 surrounds both the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220. In addition, the features described with respect to the superconducting connector assembly 100 may also be applied to the superconducting connector assembly 200. In addition, the features described with respect to the superconducting connector assembly 200 may also be applied to the superconducting connector assembly 100.

[0097] The first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 may have substantially the same cross-sectional shape (e.g., rectangular) and they may have substantially the same size. The enclosure 230 may define an opening that receives the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220. The enclosure opening may have a rectangular cross section.

[0098] The superconducting connector assembly 200 may include a first pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210 and second superconducting cable terminals 220 and a second pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210' and second superconducting cable terminals 220'. An electrical insulator 250 may be provided between the first pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210 and second superconducting cable terminals 220 and the second pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210' and second superconducting cable terminals 220'. The insulator 250 may be formed of stainless steel (such as austenitic stainless steel) or any other insulating material. At cryogenic temperatures, stainless steel acts as an insulator. Therefore, the superconducting connector assembly 200 may connect multiple separate electrical connections.

[0099] For example, more pairs of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may be provided with an insulator provided between adjacent pairs. The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal may be arranged in a row within the enclosure opening.

[0100] At least one additional insulator 260 may be provided between the inner wall of the surrounding portion 230 and the first and second superconducting cable terminals 210 and 220. The additional insulator 260 may be formed of stainless steel (such as austenitic stainless steel) or any other insulating material.

[0101] The first superconducting cable terminal 210 includes at least one opening 212 for receiving a first superconducting cable (not shown in FIG. 2 ). The second superconducting cable terminal 220 includes at least one opening 222 for receiving a second superconducting cable (not shown in FIG. 2 ). In the example shown, the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 each include two openings, but other numbers of openings are also contemplated. Each opening of a particular superconducting cable terminal can receive a separate superconducting cable or an end / strand of a particular superconducting cable. For the superconducting connector assembly 100, the first opening 212 and / or the second opening 222 can be circular, for example, to receive a round cable type (such as a CORC cable). TM ), or substantially square / rectangular to receive a CICC (cable in conduit) or stacked ribbon-type arrangement. The first opening 212 and the second opening 222 can have different shapes, for example, so that the superconducting connector assembly 200 provides an interface between different types of superconducting cables.

[0102] The same opening arrangement may be applied to the second pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210' and second superconducting cable terminals 220', such that the first superconducting cable terminal 210' includes at least one opening 212', and the second superconducting cable terminal 220' includes at least one opening 222'. The openings 212', 222' of the second pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210' and second superconducting cable terminals 220' may receive a different superconducting cable than the first pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210' and second superconducting cable terminals 220'.

[0103] The enclosure 230 may include at least one rib 232. As shown, a plurality of ribs 232 may be provided. The ribs 232 may extend longitudinally (e.g., in the same direction as the openings 212, 222) along the outer surface of the enclosure 230. Although not shown, ribs in other directions may be provided, for example, ribs extending around the outer edge of the enclosure. The ribs 232 may increase the structural rigidity of the enclosure 230. The ribs 232 may also increase the surface area of ​​the enclosure 230 and may increase, for example, the heat transfer rate from a cryogenic fluid. This may contribute to the cooling of the connector assembly 200 and the effective contraction of the enclosure 230.

[0104] In addition, as referenced below Fig.11 As will be described in greater detail, the ribs 232 may be positioned to engage with grooves or ribs of an adjacent superconducting connector assembly 200 to facilitate nesting of the adjacent superconducting connector assembly 200 .

[0105] The surrounding portion 230 may include a flange 234 surrounding at least one end of the surrounding portion 230. The rib 232 may abut against the flange 234. The flange 234 may improve the structural rigidity of the surrounding portion 230.

[0106] The superconducting connector assembly 200 may include at least one coolant channel configured to allow a coolant to flow through the superconducting connector assembly 200. The coolant may include a cryogenic fluid. For example, the first superconducting cable terminal 210, 210' and / or the second superconducting cable terminal 220, 220' may include additional openings or channels 224, 224' (e.g., Fig.11 Thus, additional channels 224, 224' can extend through the length of the superconducting cable terminal.

[0107] Additionally or alternatively, at least one coolant channel may be formed by a gap 236 between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 and the surrounding portion 230. Such a gap 236 may be formed between adjacent additional insulators 260, such as at a corner of the inner wall of the surrounding portion 230. The gap 236 helps prevent the additional insulators 260 from negatively affecting the compression applied by the surrounding portion 230, for example, by ensuring that the additional insulators 260 do not interfere with each other.

[0108] The other functions of the superconducting connector assembly 200 are the same as those of the superconducting connector assembly 100. Specifically, the surrounding portion 230 contracts more than the first superconducting cable terminal 210, 210' and the second superconducting cable terminal 220, 220', so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are pressed together at the operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly 200.

[0109] Refer to Figure 4 to Fig. 9 The superconducting connector assembly 200 may further include a mechanical fixture configured to mechanically clamp the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 together. The mechanical fixture may be configured to provide a pre-stress that may, for example, compress the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 within the enclosing portion 230 before the enclosing portion is thermally contracted. Such a pre-stress may assist in the assembly of the superconducting connector assembly 200 and may help ensure that the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 do not fall out of the enclosing portion 230 before thermal contraction. The mechanical fixture may also supplement the thermal stress caused by the contraction of the enclosing portion 230. This may therefore increase the pressure acting on the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 and further improve the electrical connection performance therebetween.

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5 , the mechanical fixing means may include at least one bolt, stud or screw (not shown) extending through at least one hole 238 in the enclosure 230. As shown, there may be a plurality of holes 238 to receive corresponding screws. The screws and holes 238 may extend through the sidewall of the enclosure 230 in a transverse direction (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first opening and the second opening). The holes 238 may be provided between the ribs 232. The screws and holes 238 may be threaded so that the screws engage with the threads in the holes and pressure at the end of the screws is transmitted to the enclosure 230. The screws may act on an additional insulator 260, which in turn may act on the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and / or the second superconducting cable terminal 220 and distribute the compressive force. Accordingly, the screws may compress the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 within the enclosure 230 when tightened.

[0111] Figure 4 depicts an arrangement with screws and holes 238 provided on two (adjacent) sides of the enclosure 230. Figure 5 depicts an alternative arrangement with screws and holes 238 provided on all sides of the enclosure 230. However, screws and holes may be provided on any number of sides or any other combination of sides (e.g., opposing sides).

[0112] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the mechanical fixing device may include at least one wedge 280 for inserting between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal 210, 210' and the second superconducting cable terminal 220, 220' and the surrounding portion 230. The wedge 280 may replace the additional insulator 260 (or be provided in addition to the additional insulator 260). The wedge 280 may be an insulator. The wedge 280 may be formed of stainless steel (such as austenitic stainless steel) or any other insulating material. The wedge 280 may be inserted in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the openings 212, 222. Figure 6b and 7b As best shown, when wedge 280 is inserted, the tapered angle of wedge 280 can compress first superconducting cable terminal 210 , 210 ′ and second superconducting cable terminal 220 , 220 ′ within enclosure 230 .

[0113] FIG. 6 depicts an example of two wedges 280 arranged perpendicular to each other. In such an arrangement, the wedges 280 can compress the first superconducting cable terminal 210, 210' and the second superconducting cable terminal 220, 220' in the vertical direction. FIG. 7 depicts another example with four wedges 280, for example, one wedge is provided on each surface of the inner wall of the enclosure. In the example of FIG. 7, a pair of wedges 280 can compress the first superconducting cable terminal 210, 210' and the second superconducting cable terminal 220, 220' in each direction. It is understood that other numbers of wedges 280 may be used, such as one, three, or any other number.

[0114] Refer to Figure 6 to Fig. 9 , the superconducting connector assembly 200 may also include at least one locking feature configured to lock or fix the mechanical fixture in place. For example, the locking feature may lock the wedge 280 in its inserted position. The locking feature may include a screw 282 that engages the enclosure 230 to provide a reaction force that holds one of the wedges 280 in place. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , a screw 282 may be provided for each wedge 280. The screw 282 may extend through a tab at one end of each wedge 280 and into a flange 234 of the enclosure 230. The screw 282 may extend in substantially the same direction as the first opening 212 and the second opening 222 (and thus the superconducting cable).

[0115] As described above, one screw may be provided for each wedge 280. However, referring to FIGS. 8 and Fig. 9 , a single locking feature can be configured to lock or secure multiple wedges 280 into their inserted positions. In the example shown in FIG. 8 , the locking feature includes a locking member 284 that includes arms 286 extending radially from a hub 287. Each arm 286 can engage with a corresponding wedge 280 located at the distal end of the arm. In the depicted example with four wedges 280, the locking member 284 can have a cross shape. Fig. 9 An alternative arrangement is shown where the cross-shaped locking member 284 is replaced by a locking member 285 in the form of a plate. The edge of the plate 285 can engage with the wedge 280 to hold the wedge in place. The plate 285 includes a series of holes or slots aligned with the openings 212, 222 to allow the passage of superconducting cables. The shape of such holes or slots can correspond to the shape of the corresponding openings 212, 222.

[0116] In Figure 8 and Fig. 9In any of the examples shown, the screw 288 may engage the locking member 284. The screw 288 may in turn engage a reaction portion 289 that transfers a retaining force to the enclosing portion 230. Again, the screw 288 may extend in the same direction as the cable openings 212, 222. The reaction portion 289 may double as an insulator 250 disposed between the first pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210 and second superconducting cable terminals 220 and the second pair of first superconducting cable terminals 210' and second superconducting cable terminals 220'. One end of the insulator 250 may include a threaded hole for receiving the screw 288. The other end of the insulator 250 may engage the enclosing portion 230 to transfer a reaction force from the screw 288 to the enclosing portion 230. For example, the insulator 250 may include a surface 290 that engages with an edge of the enclosing portion 230. FIGS. 8 and 9 may be used to illustrate the embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9 The example shown advantageously reduces the number of screws that need to be tightened or loosened. This simplifies the assembly or disassembly process.

[0117] Figure 4 to Fig. 9 Various possibilities for the mechanical fixture are depicted. However, it is also contemplated that the mechanical fixture may take a different form, such as an over-center cam or any other type of mechanical device. The mechanical fixture may also be applicable to any of the superconducting connector assemblies 100, 200 described above. Regardless of the form the mechanical fixture takes, the mechanical fixture may be configured to be engaged or disengaged by a remote tool, for example, remotely from the connector assembly 100, 200 with the superconducting cable 102, 104 in place. Similarly, the locking feature may be configured to be engaged or disengaged by a remote tool, for example, remotely from the connector assembly 100, 200 with the superconducting cable in place.

[0118] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 , a plurality of the above-described superconducting connector assemblies 100, 200 may be provided. The superconducting connector assemblies 100, 200 may be connected to each other (eg, inlaid), and may be linked together to form a wider assembly of the connector assemblies 100, 200.

[0119] Fig.10 A first assembly 300 comprising a plurality of superconducting connector assemblies is depicted, which corresponds to the superconducting connector assemblies 100 described above. However, to facilitate tessellation, the enclosure 130 may be substantially hexagonal. The first assembly 300 may include an outer jacket 310 containing the plurality of superconducting connector assemblies 100.

[0120] Fig.11A second assembly 400 is depicted that includes a plurality of superconducting connector assemblies that correspond to the superconducting connector assemblies 200 described above. Although four superconducting connector assemblies 200 are depicted, it is understood that more or fewer superconducting connector assemblies 200 may be provided. In addition, the superconducting assemblies 200 may be configured in conjunction with the superconducting connector assemblies 200. Fig.11 The superconducting components depicted in the figure may be arranged differently, for example in a linear arrangement or any other shape / configuration. An outer sheath (not shown) may also be provided. Such an outer sheath may provide an insulating layer. Fig.11 Only one of the superconducting connector assemblies 200 is shown with the first superconducting cable terminal 210 and the second superconducting cable terminal 220 inserted therein, however, it is understood that the other superconducting connector assemblies 200 may include their respective first superconducting cable terminals 210 and second superconducting cable terminals 220.

[0121] As described above, the enclosure 230 may include one or more ribs 232. The ribs 232 may cooperate to connect the superconducting connector assemblies 200 together. For example, a rib 232 of one superconducting connector assembly 200 may cooperate with a rib or groove of an adjacent superconducting connector assembly 200. The groove may be formed between two adjacent ribs 232. In this way, adjacent connector assemblies 200 may interlock and a highly adaptable assembly may be provided.

[0122] Fig.11 Also depicted is an optional positioning feature 270 provided in the insulator 250 (which may be provided independently of the second assembly 400). The positioning feature 270 may interlock with the adjacent first superconducting cable terminal 210 or second superconducting cable terminal 220. The positioning feature 270 may include a butt shoulder extending into a corresponding groove in the first superconducting cable terminal 210 or second superconducting cable terminal 220. The positioning feature 270 may help keep the components together during assembly of the superconducting connector assembly 200.

[0123] use Fig.10 and Fig.11 In any of the depicted arrangements, gaps may be provided between adjacent superconducting connector assemblies 100, 200 and / or outer jackets 310. Such gaps may form channels that may receive a coolant flow, for example, to communicate with the superconducting connector assemblies 100, 200 and / or outer jackets 310. Fig.11 In a similar manner to the additional openings or passages 224, 224' shown in FIG.

[0124] refer to Fig.12 and Fig.13, depicts a further example of a superconducting connector assembly 500. The superconducting connector assembly 500 differs from the superconducting connector assemblies 100 and 200 in that the superconducting connector assembly 500 includes a plurality of pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520. The enclosing portion 530 collectively encloses the plurality of pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520. In addition, the features described with respect to the superconducting connector assemblies 100 and 200 may also be applied to the superconducting connector assembly 500. In addition, the features described with respect to the superconducting connector assembly 500 may also be applied to the superconducting connector assemblies 100 and 200.

[0125] Each pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 includes first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 configured to be electrically coupled together to form an electrical connection. Each of the first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 receives a corresponding superconducting cable 502, 504. Accordingly, each pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 can electrically connect together the superconducting cables 502, 504 connected to the pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520. However, as will be described in more detail below, adjacent pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 can be electrically isolated from each other.

[0126] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As best shown, multiple pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 may be distributed in a circular arrangement, for example, each pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 forms a truncated sector of the circular arrangement. (Each pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 may be substantially trapezoidal in shape, for example, with a curved surface facing the surrounding portion 530.) Multiple pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 may be equally angularly distributed in the circular arrangement. The surrounding portion 530 surrounds the multiple pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520. The surrounding portion 530 may have a substantially annular cross section. Multiple pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 may also have a substantially annular cross section.

[0127] The function of the superconducting connector assembly 500 is substantially the same as that of the superconducting connector assemblies 100, 200. Specifically, the surrounding portion 530 is configured to thermally shrink more than the first superconducting cable terminal 510 and the second superconducting cable terminal 520, so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are pressed together at the operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly 500. As the surrounding portion 530 shrinks, multiple pairs of the first superconducting cable terminals 510 and the second superconducting cable terminals 520 are compressed together (e.g., in the circumferential direction), and the first superconducting cable terminals 510 and the second superconducting cable terminals 520 within each pair are also pushed toward each other.

[0128] FIG. 14 shows a pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520. As depicted, the first superconducting cable terminals 510 and the second superconducting cable terminals 520 may be interlocked relative to each other. For example, the first superconducting cable terminal 510 may include a protruding portion 516, and the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may include a receiving portion 528 configured to receive the protruding portion 516 in a matching manner. In addition, the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may include a pair of additional protruding portions 526a, 526b, and the first superconducting cable terminal 510 may include a pair of additional receiving portions 518a, 518b configured to receive the pair of additional protruding portions 526a, 526b in a matching manner. The pair of additional protruding portions 526a, 526b may be disposed on either side of the receiving portion 528 of the second superconducting cable terminal 520 (and may at least partially define the receiving portion 528). Likewise, the pair of additional receiving portions 518a, 518b may be provided on either side of the protruding portion 516 of the first superconducting cable terminal 510. Due to this configuration, the first superconducting cable terminal 510 and the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may be matingly interlocked with respect to each other.

[0129] The contact surface on the opposite protrusion 516 and the contact surface on the receiving portion 528 can form an electrical interface. Similarly, the contact surface on the opposite pair of other protrusions 526a, 526b and the contact surface on the other pair of receiving portions 518a, 518b can also form an electrical interface. In this way, a large contact area can be provided for the electrical interface. Therefore, the resistance at the interface can be reduced.

[0130] The protruding portion 516 and / or the additional protruding portions 526a, 526b may extend in a substantially radial direction of the superconducting connector assembly 500. Likewise, the opposing contact surfaces may also extend in a substantially radial direction of the superconducting connector assembly 500. Thus, the electrical interface may be perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the superconducting connector assembly 500. As the enclosure 530 contracts, this orientation may maximize the contact pressure between the opposing electrical contact surfaces. This in turn may reduce the resistance at the interface.

[0131] Still referring to Figure 14, the first superconducting cable terminal 510 may include at least one conductive portion 519a and an insulating portion 519b. Similarly, the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may include at least one conductive portion 529a and an insulating portion 529b. The conductive portions 519a, 529a may provide at least a partial electrical interface. For example, the side walls of the protrusions 516, 526a, 526b and the grooves 518a, 518b, 528 may include conductive portions 519a, 529a. Conversely, insulating portions 519b, 529b may be provided at least at the junction between adjacent pairs of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520, for example, so that adjacent pairs may be insulated from each other. Fig.14b As best shown, insulating portions 519b, 529b may form a carrier for corresponding conductive portions 519a, 529a. Conductive portions 519a, 529a may be formed from a conductive material such as copper. Insulating portions 519b, 529b may be formed from an electrically insulating material such as stainless steel.

[0132] The first superconducting cable terminal 510 may include a first opening 512 for receiving the first superconducting cable 502, and the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may include a second opening 522 for receiving the second superconducting cable 504. Specifically, the conductive portion 519a of the first superconducting cable terminal 510 may include the first opening 512. Likewise, the conductive portion 529a of the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may include the second opening 522. The openings 512, 522 may be arranged in rows, for example, each of the opposing contact surfaces has a row of openings 512, 522. Fig.14a The first and second superconducting cables 502, 504 are shown in place, and Fig.14b In addition to the openings 512 , 522 , the first superconducting cable terminal 510 and the second superconducting cable terminal 520 may further include coolant passages 514 , 524 .

[0133] Although separate first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 have been described, it is also conceivable that first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 may be parts of a single item and that the parts form an electrical interface. It is also conceivable that conductive portions 519a, 529a may be considered first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520, respectively. In any case, the contraction of the surrounding portion 530 may force the electrical contact surfaces together to reduce resistance.

[0134] Still referring to FIG. 14 , the superconducting connector assembly 500 may also include a mechanical fixing device in the form of opposing wedges 580 . Wedges 580 may be provided between the rows of conductor openings 522 in the second superconducting cable terminal 520 . However, it is also conceivable that opposing wedges may be provided additionally or alternatively between the rows of conductor openings 512 in the first superconducting cable terminal 510 . One of the opposing wedges 580 may be linearly moved relative to the other wedge 580 so that the corresponding wedge surfaces slide relative to each other and the lateral dimensions of the pair of opposing wedges are changed. In the particular example shown, moving one of the wedges 580 results in an increase in the lateral spacing (e.g., in the circumferential direction) between the rows of conductor openings 522 . This in turn increases the contact pressure between the opposing electrical contact surfaces. The position of the wedge 580 may be mechanically adjusted, for example by means of a screw mechanism (not shown) extending through the opening in the enclosure 530 . As shown, there may be a plurality of opposing wedges 580 arranged in a sawtooth form. Such an arrangement provides additional compressive force on the electrical interface along the length of the electrical interface.

[0135] refer to Fig.15 and Fig.16 , a superconducting connector assembly 500 may be provided in the superconducting toroidal field coil assembly 600. The superconducting toroidal field coil assembly 600 may be provided with Figure 1 The depicted superconducting magnet assembly 1 corresponds. For example, each pair of first superconducting cable terminals 510 and second superconducting cable terminals 520 of the superconducting connector assembly 500 can be configured to connect the ends of a specific superconducting toroidal field cable 602 together. In this way, the superconducting connector assembly 500 can connect all superconducting toroidal field cables 602 together with a single connector assembly. The superconducting connector assembly 500 can be set at the center relative to the toroidal container 4 (e.g., a nuclear fusion reactor). Specifically, the superconducting connector assembly 500 can be set at the top of the toroidal container 4.

[0136] Fig.16 Depicted are different paths of a first superconducting cable 502 and a second superconducting cable 504 from a superconducting connector assembly 500. The first superconducting cable 502 and the second superconducting cable 504 correspond to first and second ends of a particular superconducting toroidal field cable 602, 604. The first and second ends of the superconducting toroidal field cables 602, 604 may extend from the same side of the superconducting connector assembly 500. The first end of the superconducting toroidal field cable 602 (i.e., the first superconducting cable 502) may initially extend vertically downward, but may then be rotated substantially 90 degrees and extend horizontally through the top of the toroidal container 4. The second end of the superconducting toroidal field cable 604 (i.e., the second superconducting cable 504) may continue vertically downward, for example, through the center of the toroidal container 4.

[0137] although Fig.15 and Fig.16 The superconducting connector assembly 500 is depicted as being disposed at the top of the annular container 4 , but it is also contemplated that the superconducting connector assembly 500 may additionally or alternatively be disposed at the bottom of the annular container 4 .

[0138] refer to Fig.17 , the present disclosure relates to a method 700 of assembling a superconducting connector assembly 100, 200, 500 to electrically connect a first superconducting cable 102, 502 and a second superconducting cable 104, 504. The method 700 includes inserting one or more first superconducting cable terminals 110, 210, 510 and one or more second superconducting cable terminals 120, 220, 520 into an enclosure 130, 230, 530 so that the first opening and the second opening overlap (710). The method 700 also includes cryogenically cooling the superconducting connector assembly 100, 200, 500 so that the first superconducting cable terminal 110, 210, 510 and the second superconducting cable terminal 120, 220, 520 are compressed together and form an electrical interface at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly (720).

[0139] The method 700 may also include, before cryogenically cooling the superconducting connector assembly (720), mechanically clamping the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal together (e.g., with a mechanical clamp) to provide a prestress (715) that compresses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the enclosure 130, 230, 530. The method 700 may also include locking the locking feature to lock or secure the at least one wedge in the inserted position.

[0140] The method 700 may further include welding ends of the first and second superconducting cables 102, 502, 104, 504 into the corresponding first and second openings (705) before inserting the first and second superconducting cable terminals 110, 210, 510, 120, 220, 520 into the enclosure 130, 230, 530 (710).

[0141] refer to Fig.18, the present disclosure relates to a method 800 for disassembling a superconducting connector assembly 100, 200, 500 to electrically disconnect a first superconducting cable 102, 502 and a second superconducting cable 104, 504. The method includes increasing the temperature of the superconducting connector assembly 100, 200, 500 from an operating temperature so that one or more first superconducting cable terminals 110, 210, 510 and one or more second superconducting cable terminals 120, 220, 520 are decompressed (e.g., no longer under thermal compression) (810). The method 800 also includes loosening and removing at least one of the one or more first superconducting cable terminals 110, 210, 510 and one or more second superconducting cable terminals 120, 220, 520 from an enclosure 130, 230, 530 (820). The method 800 may also include, before removing the first superconducting cable terminal and / or the second superconducting cable terminal (820), releasing a mechanical clamp (e.g., if such a mechanical clamp is provided) (815). Releasing the mechanical clamp (815) may include unlocking the locking feature described above.

[0142] Variations of the disclosed embodiments may be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the principles and techniques described herein from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be utilized. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A superconducting connector assembly for electrically connecting a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector assembly comprising: at least one first superconducting cable terminal, the first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving an end of the first superconducting cable; at least one second superconducting cable terminal, the second superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one second opening for receiving an end of the second superconducting cable; as well as an enclosing portion configured to receive and enclose the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, wherein, when the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are received in the surrounding portion, the first opening and the second opening overlap, The surrounding portion is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient different from those of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are compressed together at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly and form an electrical interface.

2. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are formed of oxygen-free high-conductivity copper.

3. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The surrounding portion is formed of aluminum.

4. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first superconducting cable terminal is configured to surround the second superconducting cable terminal.

5. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The first superconducting cable terminal is concentric with the second superconducting cable terminal.

6. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly further includes a bushing, and the second superconducting terminal surrounds the bushing.

7. The superconducting connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are configured to be arranged side by side with each other.

8. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly includes a first pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals and a second pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals, and wherein an electrical insulator is provided between the first pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals and the second pair of first and second superconducting cable terminals.

9. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly further includes a mechanical fixing device configured to mechanically clamp the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal together.

10. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The mechanical fixing device is configured to provide a prestress that compresses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the surrounding portion prior to heat shrinkage of the surrounding portion.

11. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 9 or 10, wherein: The mechanical fixing device includes at least one wedge, and wherein, when the wedge is inserted between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal and the surrounding portion, a taper angle of the wedge compresses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the surrounding portion.

12. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly further includes at least one locking feature configured to lock or secure the at least one wedge in an inserted position of the wedge between at least one of the first and second superconducting cable terminals and the enclosure.

13. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 12, wherein: A single locking feature is configured to lock or secure the plurality of wedges into the inserted position.

14. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The locking feature includes at least one screw extending in substantially the same direction as the first opening and the second opening.

15. The superconducting connector assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein: The mechanical fixing means includes at least one screw that engages and extends through the enclosure to compress the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the enclosure when tightened.

16. The superconducting connector assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein: The mechanical fixture includes at least one pair of opposing wedges, wherein one wedge is linearly moved relative to the other wedge so that the respective wedge surfaces slide relative to each other and the lateral dimensions of the pair of opposing wedges are changed.

17. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The mechanical securing device includes a plurality of opposing pairs of wedges arranged in a serration pattern.

18. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly includes at least one coolant channel configured to allow a coolant to flow through the superconducting connector assembly.

19. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 18, wherein: At least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal includes a coolant channel.

20. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: At least one coolant channel is formed by a gap between at least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal and the surrounding portion.

21. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are interlocked with respect to each other.

22. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 21, wherein: One of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal includes a protruding portion, and the other of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal includes a receiving portion configured to receive the protruding portion.

23. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 22, wherein: The electrical interface is provided by opposing surfaces on the protruding portion and surfaces on the receiving portion.

24. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: At least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal includes a conductive portion and an insulating portion, the conductive portion providing at least a portion of the electrical interface.

25. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly includes a plurality of first superconducting cable terminals and a plurality of second superconducting cable terminals.

26. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly includes a plurality of pairs of first and second superconducting cable terminals, the plurality of pairs of first and second superconducting cable terminals being distributed in a circular arrangement.

27. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 26, wherein: Each pair of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal forms a truncated sector of the circular arrangement.

28. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 26 or 27, wherein: The surrounding portion surrounds the plurality of pairs of first and second superconducting cable terminals distributed in the circular arrangement.

29. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The surrounding portion includes at least one rib.

30. A superconducting connector assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The superconducting connector assembly is configured to be substantially nested with other superconducting connector assemblies.

31. The superconducting connector assembly according to claim 30, wherein: The enclosure includes one or more ribs, and wherein one of the ribs is configured to mate with a groove or another rib of an adjacent superconducting connector component.

32. An assembly comprising a plurality of superconducting connector assemblies according to claim 30 or 31, wherein: The superconducting connector components are inlaid with each other.

33. An assembly comprising the superconducting connector assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 31, the first superconducting cable, and the second superconducting cable.

34. The assembly of claim 33, wherein: The assembly also includes solder in the first opening and the second opening, the solder connecting the first and second superconducting cables to the first and second superconducting cable terminals, respectively, wherein the solder has a smaller Young's modulus or hardness than a material of the first and second superconducting cable terminals.

35. The assembly of claim 34, wherein: The solder includes indium or a eutectic-based component.

36. A superconducting toroidal field coil assembly, comprising a superconducting connector assembly according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein: Each pair of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal is configured to connect ends of the superconducting toroidal field cable together.

37. A method of assembling a superconducting connector assembly to electrically connect a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector comprising: at least one first superconducting cable terminal, the first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving an end of the first superconducting cable; at least one second superconducting cable terminal, the second superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one second opening for receiving an end of the second superconducting cable; as well as an enclosing portion configured to receive and enclose the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, wherein the enclosing portion is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient different from those of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal, Wherein, the method comprises: inserting the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal into the surrounding portion so that the first opening and the second opening overlap; and The superconducting connector assembly is cryogenically cooled so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are compressed together and form an electrical interface at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising: Prior to cryogenically cooling the superconducting connector assembly, the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are mechanically clamped together to provide a prestress that compresses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal within the surrounding portion.

39. The method according to claim 37 or 38, further comprising, before inserting the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal into the surrounding portion: welding one end of the first superconducting cable to the first opening of the first superconducting cable terminal; as well as One end of the second superconducting cable is welded to the second opening of the second superconducting cable terminal.

40. A method of disassembling a superconducting connector assembly to electrically disconnect a first superconducting cable and a second superconducting cable, the superconducting connector comprising: at least one first superconducting cable terminal, the first superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one first opening for receiving an end of the first superconducting cable; at least one second superconducting cable terminal, the second superconducting cable terminal comprising at least one second opening for receiving an end of the second superconducting cable; as well as an enclosing portion that receives and encloses the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal so that the first opening and the second opening overlap, wherein the enclosing portion is made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient different from those of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are compressed together at an operating temperature of the superconducting connector assembly and form an electrical interface, Wherein, the method comprises: increasing the temperature of the superconducting connector assembly from the operating temperature so that the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal are depressurized; and At least one of the first superconducting cable terminal and the second superconducting cable terminal is released from the surrounding portion.

Images