Fuse support

Abstract

Provided is a fuse holder that protects a fuse device by preventing a fuse body of the fuse device from shaking when the fuse device vibrates. The fuse holder may include a planar portion having an aperture for receiving the securement mechanism therein; a first extension portion disposed adjacent to and extending from a first end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the first extension portion spanning a length of the first end of the planar portion; and a first annular portion disposed adjacent to and extending from a second end of the first extension portion, the first annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving a cylindrical fuse body therein, where the second end of the first extension portion may be adjacent to the first end of the first extension portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to fuse devices and, more particularly, to a fuse holder for a fuse device. Background Art

[0002] Fuse devices are well known in the art, and known systems and methods for securing and supporting fuse devices include suspending the fuse body between terminals secured with securing mechanisms such as bolts. In this way, the fuse body is suspended without any support directly to or on it, other than directly contacting the terminals.

[0003] For example, Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B and Figure 1C A fuse assembly system 100 known in the art is shown, with a fuse body 102 suspended between a terminal 104 and a terminal 106. A securing mechanism 108 secures the terminal 104 to a bus bar 112, and a securing mechanism 110 secures the terminal 106 to a bus bar 114, but neither the securing mechanism 108 nor the securing mechanism 110 provides any support for the fuse body 102.

[0004] When the fuse unit is vibrated, such as during vibration testing or during use, the fuse body shakes violently without anything to minimize its movement. Figure 1A The points marked as high stress areas are actually subject to high stress and are susceptible to fracture, cracking and / or damage.

[0005] In view of the foregoing, there exists a continuing need for improved systems and methods for securing and supporting fuse devices. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This brief summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] In some embodiments, the fuse holder may include a planar portion having a hole for receiving a fixing mechanism therein; a first extension portion arranged adjacent to a first end of the planar portion and extending from the first end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the first extension portion spanning the length of the first end of the planar portion; and a first annular portion arranged adjacent to and extending from the second end of the first extension portion, the first annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving a cylindrical fuse body therein, wherein the second end of the first extension portion may be adjacent to the first end of the first extension portion.

[0008] In some embodiments, the angle between the planar portion and the first extending portion may be greater than 0° and less than 90°.

[0009] In some embodiments, the angle between the planar portion and the first end of the first extension portion may be constant, and the angle between the planar portion and the second end of the first extension portion may gradually increase or decrease to match the partially circumferential shape of the first annular portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the origin of the partially circular shape of the first annular portion may be outside of the planar portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, the fuse holder can include a support structure between at least a portion of the first end of the planar portion and at least a portion of the first end of the first extension portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end of the planar portion and at least a portion of the first end of the first extension portion may be partially elevated or partially recessed to form a support structure.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first annular portion can be shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0014] In some embodiments, the fuse holder may include a second extension portion arranged adjacent to the second end of the planar portion and extending from the second end of the planar portion at a certain angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the second extension portion spanning the length of the second end of the planar portion; and a second annular portion arranged adjacent to the second end of the second extension portion and extending from it, the second annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving a cylindrical fuse body therein, wherein the second end of the second extension portion may be adjacent to the first end of the second extension portion, and wherein the second end of the planar portion may be parallel to the first end of the planar portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first annular portion can be shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of a first semicircumference of the cylindrical fuse body, and the second annular portion can be shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of a second semicircumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0016] In some embodiments, the open end of the first annular portion can be offset from the open end of the second annular portion by approximately 180° on the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0017] In some embodiments, an electrical circuit may include a fuse device comprising a cylindrical fuse body disposed between a first terminal and a second terminal, a first fuse holder secured to the first terminal with a first securing mechanism and circumscribing and retaining a majority of at least half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at a first end of the cylindrical fuse body, and a second fuse holder secured to the second terminal with a second securing mechanism and circumscribing and retaining a majority of at least half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at a second end of the cylindrical fuse body, wherein each of the first fuse holder and the second fuse holder may include a planar portion having a hole for receiving the first securing mechanism or the second securing mechanism therein; a first extension portion disposed adjacent to the first end of the planar portion and extending from the first end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the first extension portion spanning a length of the first end of the planar portion; and a first annular portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the second end of the first extension portion, the first annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving the cylindrical fuse body therein, wherein the second end of the first extension portion may be adjacent to the first end of the first extension portion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the planar portion of the first fuse holder can rest on top of a first terminal that can rest on top of a first busbar, and the planar portion of the second fuse holder can rest on top of a second terminal that can rest on top of a second busbar.

[0019] In some embodiments, the holes in the planar portion of the first fuse holder can be aligned with the holes in the first bus bar and the first terminal for receiving the first fixing mechanism therein, and the holes in the planar portion of the second fuse holder can be aligned with the holes in the second bus bar and the second terminal for receiving the second fixing mechanism therein.

[0020] In some embodiments, current can flow from the first busbar to the first terminal, through the cylindrical fuse body, to the second terminal, and to the second busbar without flowing through or being interrupted by the first fuse holder or the second fuse holder.

[0021] In some embodiments, the open end of the first annular portion of the first fuse holder can be offset by approximately 180° from the open end of the first annular portion of the second fuse holder on the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0022] In some embodiments, each of the first fuse holder and the second fuse holder can include a second extension portion arranged adjacent to the second end of the planar portion and extending from the second end of the planar portion at a certain angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the second extension portion spanning the length of the second end of the planar portion; and a second annular portion arranged adjacent to the second end of the second extension portion and extending from it, the second annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving a cylindrical fuse body therein, wherein the second end of the second extension portion can be adjacent to the first end of the second extension portion, and wherein the second end of the planar portion can be parallel to the first end of the planar portion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first annular portion of the first fuse holder can circumscribe and retain a majority of the first semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the first end of the cylindrical fuse body, the second annular portion of the first fuse holder can circumscribe and retain a majority of the second semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the first end of the cylindrical fuse body, the first annular portion of the second fuse holder can circumscribe and retain a majority of the first semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the second end of the cylindrical fuse body, and the second annular portion of the second fuse holder can circumscribe and retain a majority of the second semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the second end of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0024] In some embodiments, a power distribution circuit may include an electrical circuit having a fuse device, a first fuse holder, and a second fuse holder.

[0025] In some embodiments, a power distribution unit may include an electrical circuit that may include a fuse device and a fuse holder, wherein a fuse body of the fuse device may be mechanically secured in place via a first portion of the fuse holder that holds the fuse body, wherein electrical terminals of the fuse device may be mechanically secured in place via holes in a second portion of the fuse holder that receives a securing mechanism, the electrical terminals, and a busbar, and wherein current may flow from the busbar through the fuse device without flowing through or being interrupted by the fuse holder.

[0026] In some embodiments, the fuse holder can retain the fuse body at a first end of the fuse body and a second end of the fuse body.

[0027] Other technical features will be clear to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, description and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1A is a side view showing a fuse device system of the related art.

[0029] Figure 1B is a side view showing a fuse device system of the related art.

[0030] Figure 1C FIG. 1 is a top view showing a conventional fuse device system.

[0031] Figure 2A is a perspective view illustrating a fuse device system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2B is a top view illustrating a fuse device system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 2C is a side view illustrating a fuse device system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 3A is a perspective view illustrating a fuse holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 3B is a side view illustrating a fuse holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 3C is a perspective view illustrating a fuse holder in operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 3D is a side view illustrating a fuse holder in operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 3E is an exploded view illustrating a fuse holder in operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 4A is a perspective view illustrating a fuse holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 4B is a side view illustrating a fuse holder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 4C is a perspective view illustrating a fuse holder in operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 4D is a perspective view illustrating a fuse holder in operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 4E is an exploded view illustrating a fuse holder in operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 5A is a side view illustrating current flow in a fuse device system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 5B is a side view illustrating current flow in a fuse device system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electrical circuit in a power distribution unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Exemplary embodiments of fuse holders according to the present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, fuse holders may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will convey certain exemplary aspects of fuse holders to those skilled in the art.

[0048] According to disclosed embodiments, a fuse holder can be secured to the terminals of a fuse device while also supporting and retaining the fuse body of the fuse device. In this manner, when the fuse device vibrates, the fuse holder can protect the fuse device by preventing and / or minimizing vibration of the fuse body, thereby avoiding vibration issues associated with fuse devices known in the prior art. Advantageously, the fuse holder can provide mechanical support for the fuse device, including the fuse body, without interrupting or affecting the current flowing through the fuse device or any of the fuse device's electrical connections.

[0049] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the fuse holders disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with any fuse device, including fuse devices of any weight. However, because heavier fuse devices are known to suffer the most damage when subjected to vibration, the fuse holders disclosed herein can be used with, in particular, heavier fuse devices, such as fuse devices weighing 90-380g, fuse devices weighing up to 2000g, or fuse devices weighing more than 2000g. However, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to these weights. In particular, the fuse holders disclosed herein can be designed to have the strength required to hold fuse devices of any weight in the manner disclosed herein.

[0050] Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C A fuse device system 200 is shown in accordance with a disclosed embodiment. As shown, the fuse device system 200 can include a fuse holder 216 that secures the terminal 204 to the bus bar 212 and holds a first end of the fuse body 202, and a fuse holder 218 that secures the terminal 206 to the bus bar 214 and holds a second end of the fuse body 202.

[0051] Figure 3Aand Figure 3B A fuse holder 300 is shown according to one embodiment disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the fuse holder 300 may be the same as or similar to the fuse holder 216 and / or the fuse holder 218.

[0052] As shown, fuse holder 300 may include a planar portion 302, an extension portion 308, and an annular portion 312. In some embodiments, planar portion 302, extension portion 308, and annular portion 312 may comprise a continuous piece of material that is formed to form fuse holder 300. For example, planar portion 302, extension portion 308, and annular portion 312 may be stamped or injection molded to form fuse holder 300. In some embodiments, fuse holder 300 may comprise stainless steel or a copper alloy. However, the disclosed embodiments are not limited thereto and may be made of any material known and desired by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0053] The planar portion 302 may be flat like a washer and may be any shape known and desired by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Figure 3A and Figure 3B 302 is shown as a rectangle or square, but the disclosed embodiments are not limited thereto. Instead, the planar portion 302 can be rectangular, square, circular, oval, triangular, hexagonal, etc. In any embodiment, the planar portion 302 can include a hole 304 for receiving a securing mechanism therein.

[0054] Extension portion 308 can be positioned adjacent to first end 306 of planar portion 302 and extend therefrom at an angle relative to planar portion 302. In some embodiments, first end 310 of extension portion 308 can span the length of first end 306 of planar portion 302. However, in some embodiments, first end 310 of extension portion 308 can span a portion of the length of first end 306 of planar portion 302. In some embodiments, the angle between planar portion 302 and extension portion 308 can be greater than 0° and less than 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle between planar portion 302 and first end 310 of extension portion 308 can be constant, while the angle between planar portion 302 and second end 314 of extension portion 308 can gradually increase or decrease to match the partially circumferential shape of annular portion 312.

[0055] In this regard, the annular portion 312 can be disposed adjacent to and extend from the second end 314 of the extension portion 308 such that the second end 314 of the extension portion 308 can be adjacent to the first end 310 of the extension portion 308. As such, the origin C of the partially circumferential shape of the annular portion 312 can be external to the planar portion 302. That is, in some embodiments, the annular portion 312 does not overhang the planar portion 302. The partially circumferential shape of the annular portion 312 can be shaped to receive a cylindrical fuse body therein, and in some embodiments, the annular portion 312 can be shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0056] Although annular portion 312 is shown as circular in the figures, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto, and annular portion 312 can have any shape known and desired by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, annular portion 312 can have a rectangular shape or any other shape capable of circumscribing and retaining the fuse body. In fact, if the fuse body has a square shape, then annular portion 312 can have a corresponding square shape to circumscribe and retain at least a portion of the exterior of the fuse body.

[0057] In some embodiments, the fuse holder 300 may further include a support structure 316 between at least a portion of the first end 306 of the planar portion 302 and at least a portion of the first end 310 of the extension portion 308 to provide additional stability and strength to the fuse holder 300. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end 306 of the planar portion 302 and at least a portion of the first end 310 of the extension portion 308 may be partially raised or partially recessed to form the support structure 316.

[0058] In operation, such as Figure 3C 、 Figure 3D and Figure 3E As shown, the fuse holder 300 can be fixed to the terminal 322 via a fixing mechanism 324 (such as a bolt) and hold the fuse body 326. For example, the fuse body 326 can be cylindrical, and the fuse holder 300 can hold most of at least half of the circumference of the fuse body 326.

[0059] In some embodiments, the planar portion 302 of the fuse holder 300 can rest on top of the terminal 322, and the terminal 322 can rest on top of the bus bar 320. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the aperture 304 of the planar portion 302 of the fuse holder 300 can align with the apertures of the bus bar 320 and the terminal 322 for receiving the securing mechanism 324 therein.

[0060] To install the fuse holder 300, the securing mechanism 324 can be removed from the terminal 322 and the busbar 320. Figure 3E As best shown, the fuse holder 300 can be positioned as shown and described, such as by vertically positioning the fuse holder 300 on top of the fuse body 326 and terminals 322, prior to being secured with the securing mechanism 324 as shown and described.

[0061] Despite Figure 3C 、 Figure 3D and Figure 3E Only one terminal 322 and one end of the fuse body 326 are shown, but it should be understood that the fuse holder can be used with Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C The fuse device shown is connected at both ends for use. For example, fuse body 326 can be arranged between terminal 322 and a second terminal. Fuse holder 300 can securely connect and retain the fuse device at its first end as described above, and a second fuse holder can securely connect and retain the fuse device at its second end. For example, the second fuse holder can be secured to the second terminal via a second securing mechanism (such as a bolt) and retain fuse body 326 at its second end. As described above, the second fuse holder can retain at least a majority of half the circumference of fuse body 326.

[0062] In these embodiments, Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C As best shown, the open end of the annular portion 312 of the fuse holder 300 may be offset approximately 180° about the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body 300 from the open end of the annular portion of the second fuse holder.

[0063] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Another embodiment of a fuse holder 400 is shown. As shown, fuse holder 400 may include a planar portion 402, a first extension 408, a first annular portion 412, a second extension 422, and a second annular portion 426. In some embodiments, planar portion 402, first extension 408, first annular portion 412, second extension 422, and second annular portion 426 may comprise a continuous piece of material that is formed to form fuse holder 400. For example, planar portion 402, first extension 408, first annular portion 412, second extension 422, and second annular portion 426 may be stamped or injection molded to form fuse holder 400. In some embodiments, fuse holder 400 may comprise stainless steel or a copper alloy. However, the disclosed embodiments are not limited thereto and may be made of any material known and desired by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0064] The planar portion 402 may be flat like a washer and may be any shape known and desired by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Figure 4A and Figure 4B 4. The planar portion 402 is shown as a rectangle or square, but the disclosed embodiments are not limited thereto. Instead, the planar portion 402 can be rectangular, square, circular, oval, triangular, hexagonal, etc. In any embodiment, the planar portion 402 can include a hole 404 for receiving a securing mechanism therein.

[0065] First extension portion 408 may be positioned adjacent to first end 406 of planar portion 402 and extend therefrom at an angle relative to planar portion 402. In some embodiments, first end 410 of first extension portion 408 may span the length of first end 406 of planar portion 402. However, in some embodiments, first end 410 of first extension portion 408 may span a portion of the length of first end 406 of planar portion 402. In some embodiments, the angle between planar portion 402 and first extension portion 408 may be greater than 0° and less than 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle between planar portion 402 and first end 410 of first extension portion 408 may be constant, while the angle between planar portion 402 and second end 414 of first extension portion 408 may gradually increase or decrease to match the partially circumferential shape of first annular portion 412.

[0066] In this regard, the first annular portion 412 can be disposed adjacent to and extend from the second end 414 of the first extension portion 408 such that the second end 414 of the first extension portion 408 can be adjacent to the first end 410 of the first extension portion 408. Thus, the origin C of the partially circumferential shape of the first annular portion 412 can be external to the planar portion 402. The partially circumferential shape of the first annular portion 412 can be shaped to receive a cylindrical fuse body therein, and in some embodiments, the first annular portion 412 can be shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of the first half of the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body. In some embodiments, the first half of the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body can include a top half thereof.

[0067] Similarly, second extension portion 422 can be positioned adjacent to second end 420 of planar portion 402 and extend therefrom at an angle relative to planar portion 402 such that second end 420 of planar portion 402 can be parallel to first end 406 of planar portion 402. In some embodiments, first end 424 of second extension portion 422 can span the length of second end 420 of planar portion 402. However, in some embodiments, first end 424 of second extension portion 422 can span a portion of the length of second end 420 of planar portion 402. In some embodiments, the angle between planar portion 402 and second extension portion 422 can be greater than 0° and less than 90°. Additionally or alternatively, the angle between first end 424 of planar portion 402 and second extension portion 422 can be constant, while the angle between second end 428 of planar portion 402 and second extension portion 422 can gradually increase or decrease to match the partially circumferential shape of second annular portion 426.

[0068] In this regard, the second annular portion 426 can be positioned adjacent to and extend from the second end 428 of the second extension 422 such that the second end 428 of the second extension 422 can be adjacent to the first end 424 of the second extension 422. Thus, the origin C of the partially circumferential shape of the second annular portion 426 can be outside of the planar portion 402, and in some embodiments, the origin C of the first annular portion 412 can be the same as the origin of the second annular portion 426. The partially circumferential shape of the second annular portion 426 can be shaped to receive a cylindrical fuse body therein, and in some embodiments, the second annular portion 426 can be shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of the second half of the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body. In some embodiments, the second half of the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body can include its bottom half. Thus, the fuse holder 400 can retain substantially the entire circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0069] In these embodiments, the open end 418 of the first annular portion 412 may be offset from the open end 432 of the second annular portion 426 by approximately 180° on the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

[0070] Although the first annular portion 412 and the second annular portion 426 are shown as circular in the figures, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto, and that the first annular portion 412 and the second annular portion 426 may have any shape known and desired by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, one or both of the first annular portion 412 and the second annular portion 426 may be rectangular or any other shape capable of circumscribing and retaining the fuse body. In fact, if the fuse body has a square shape, then the first annular portion 412 and the second annular portion 426 may have a corresponding square shape for circumscribing and retaining at least a portion of the exterior of the fuse body.

[0071] In some embodiments, the fuse holder 400 can further include a support structure 416 between at least a portion of the first end 406 of the planar portion 402 and at least a portion of the first end 410 of the first extension 408 to provide additional stability and strength to the fuse holder 400. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first end 406 of the planar portion 402 and at least a portion of the first end 410 of the first extension 408 can be partially raised or partially recessed to form the support structure 416. Additionally or alternatively, the fuse holder 400 can include a support structure 430 between at least a portion of the second end 420 of the planar portion 402 and at least a portion of the first end 424 of the second extension 422 to provide additional stability and strength to the fuse holder 400. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second end 420 of the planar portion 402 and at least a portion of the first end 424 of the second extension 422 can be partially raised or partially recessed to form the support structure 430.

[0072] In operation, such as Figure 4C 、 Figure 4D and Figure 4E As shown, the fuse holder 400 can be fixed to the terminal 436 via a fixing mechanism 438 (such as a bolt) and retain the fuse body 440. For example, the fuse body 440 can be cylindrical, and the fuse holder 400 can retain most of the circumference of the fuse body 440.

[0073] In some embodiments, the planar portion 402 of the fuse holder 400 can rest on top of the terminal 436, and the terminal 436 can rest on top of the bus bar 434. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the aperture 404 of the planar portion 402 of the fuse holder 400 can align with the apertures of the bus bar 434 and the terminal 436 for receiving the securing mechanism 438 therein.

[0074] To install the fuse holder 400, the securing mechanism 438 can be removed from the terminal 436 and the bus bar 434, and the terminal 436 can be removed from the bus bar 434. Figure 4E As best shown, the fuse holder 400 can be positioned as shown and described, such as by sliding the fuse holder 400 horizontally over the terminal 436 and fuse body 440, and the terminal 436 can be positioned relative to the busbar 434, before being secured with the securing mechanism 438 as shown and described.

[0075] Despite Figure 4C 、 Figure 4D and Figure 4E Only one terminal 436 and one end of the fuse body 440 are shown, but it should be understood that the fuse holder can be used with Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B and Figure 2C The fuse device shown is connected at both ends for use. For example, fuse body 440 can be positioned between terminal 436 and a second terminal. Fuse holder 400 can securely connect and retain the fuse device at its first end, as described above, and a second fuse holder can securely connect and retain the fuse device at its second end. For example, the second fuse holder can be secured to the second terminal via a second securing mechanism (e.g., a bolt) and retain fuse body 440 at its second end. As described above, the second fuse holder can retain most of the circumference of fuse body 440.

[0076] In any embodiment of the fuse holder disclosed herein, the current does not need to flow through the fuse holder and therefore will not be affected or interrupted by the fuse holder. For example, Figure 5A and Figure 5BThe flow of current in a fuse device system 500 according to the disclosed embodiments is illustrated. As shown, a first fuse holder 502 can affix and retain a first end of a fuse device 506, and a second fuse holder 504 can affix and retain a second end of the fuse device 506. Current can enter the fuse device 506 by flowing from a first busbar 508 to a first terminal 510 before flowing into a fuse body 512 of the fuse device 506. However, as shown and described, because the design and shape of the fuse holder 502 facilitate the arrangement of the fuse holder 502 relative to the fuse device 506, current does not flow through the fuse holder 502. In effect, the current is not affected or interrupted by the fuse holder 502. Similarly, current can exit the fuse device 506 by flowing from the fuse body 512 of the fuse device 506 to the second terminal and then to the second busbar. However, as shown and described, current does not flow through fuse holder 504 because the design and shape of fuse holder 504 relative to fuse assembly 506 facilitates the arrangement of fuse holder 504 relative to fuse assembly 506 .

[0077] Any embodiment of the fuse holder disclosed herein may be part of an electrical circuit that includes a fuse device. Similarly, any embodiment of the fuse holder disclosed herein may be part of a power distribution circuit that includes the electrical circuit. For example, Figure 6 An electrical circuit in a power distribution unit 600 according to a disclosed embodiment is shown. As shown, the power distribution unit 600 can include one or more electrical circuits, including fuse devices 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d, 602e, 602f, 602g, 602h, 602i, and 602j, collectively referred to as fuse devices 602. Any or all of the fuse devices 602 can be secured and retained by a fuse holder disclosed herein. For example, the fuse body of any fuse device 602 can be mechanically secured in place via a first portion of the fuse holder that retains the fuse body, and the electrical terminals of any fuse device 602 can be mechanically secured in place via a second portion of the fuse holder that receives one or more securing mechanisms, the electrical terminals, and an aperture in which one or more busbars are received. In some embodiments, the fuse holder can secure and retain any fuse device 602 at one end thereof, and in some embodiments, the fuse holder can secure and retain any fuse device 602 at both a first end and a second end thereof.

[0078] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and beginning with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding multiple elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. In addition, reference to "one embodiment" of the present disclosure is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of other embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

[0079] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, many modifications, variations, and changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the field and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, but has the full scope defined by the language of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A fuse holder, comprising: a planar portion having a hole for receiving the securing mechanism therein; a first extension portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the first end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the first extension portion spanning a length of the first end of the planar portion; and a first annular portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the second end of the first extending portion, the first annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving the cylindrical fuse body therein, The second end of the first extending portion is adjacent to the first end of the first extending portion.

2. The fuse holder according to claim 1, wherein: An angle between the planar portion and the first extending portion is greater than 0° and less than 90°.

3. The fuse holder according to claim 1, wherein: The angle between the planar portion and the first end of the first extension portion is constant, and wherein the angle between the planar portion and the second end of the first extension portion gradually increases or decreases to match the partially circumferential shape of the first annular portion.

4. The fuse holder according to claim 1, wherein: The partially circular shape of the first annular portion has its origin outside the planar portion.

5. The fuse holder according to claim 1, further comprising: A support structure is provided between at least a portion of the first end of the planar portion and at least a portion of the first end of the first extension portion.

6. The fuse holder according to claim 5, wherein: At least a portion of the first end portion of the planar portion and at least a portion of the first end portion of the first extension portion are partially elevated or partially recessed to form the support structure.

7. The fuse holder according to claim 1, wherein: The first annular portion is shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

8. The fuse holder according to claim 1, further comprising: a second extension portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the second end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the second extension portion spanning a length of the second end of the planar portion; and a second annular portion disposed adjacent to and extending from a second end of the second extending portion, the second annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving the cylindrical fuse body therein, wherein the second end of the second extending portion is adjacent to the first end of the second extending portion, and The second end of the planar portion is parallel to the first end of the planar portion.

9. The fuse holder according to claim 8, wherein: The first annular portion is shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of a first semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body, and wherein the second annular portion is shaped to circumscribe and retain a majority of a second semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

10. The fuse holder according to claim 8, wherein The open end of the first annular portion is offset from the open end of the second annular portion by approximately 180° on the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

11. An electrical circuit comprising: a fuse device comprising a cylindrical fuse body disposed between a first terminal and a second terminal; a first fuse holder secured to the first terminal with a first securing mechanism and circumscribing and retaining a substantial portion of at least half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at a first end portion of the cylindrical fuse body; and a second fuse holder secured to the second terminal with a second securing mechanism and circumscribing and retaining a majority of at least half the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at a second end portion of the cylindrical fuse body; Wherein, each of the first fuse holder and the second fuse holder comprises: a planar portion having a hole for receiving the first securing mechanism or the second securing mechanism therein; a first extension portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the first end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the first extension portion spanning a length of the first end of the planar portion; and a first annular portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the second end of the first extending portion, the first annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving the cylindrical fuse body therein, The second end of the first extending portion is adjacent to the first end of the first extending portion.

12. The electrical circuit according to claim 11, wherein The planar portion of the first fuse holder rests on top of a first terminal that rests on top of a first busbar, and wherein the planar portion of the second fuse holder rests on top of a second terminal that rests on top of a second busbar.

13. The electrical circuit according to claim 12, wherein The holes in the planar portion of the first fuse holder are aligned with the holes in the first busbar and the first terminal for receiving a first securing mechanism therein, and wherein the holes in the planar portion of the second fuse holder are aligned with the holes in the second busbar and the second terminal for receiving a second securing mechanism therein.

14. The electrical circuit according to claim 12, wherein: Current flows from the first busbar to the first terminal, through the cylindrical fuse body, to the second terminal, and to the second busbar without flowing through or being interrupted by the first fuse holder or the second fuse holder.

15. The electrical circuit of claim 11, wherein The open end of the first annular portion of the first fuse holder is offset from the open end of the first annular portion of the second fuse holder by approximately 180° on the circumference of the cylindrical fuse body.

16. The electrical circuit of claim 11, wherein: Each of the first fuse holder and the second fuse holder comprises: a second extension portion disposed adjacent to and extending from the second end of the planar portion at an angle relative to the planar portion, the first end of the second extension portion spanning a length of the second end of the planar portion; and a second annular portion disposed adjacent to and extending from a second end of the second extending portion, the second annular portion having a partially circumferential shape for receiving the cylindrical fuse body therein, wherein the second end of the second extending portion is adjacent to the first end of the second extending portion, and The second end of the planar portion is parallel to the first end of the planar portion.

17. The electrical circuit of claim 16, wherein: The first annular portion of the first fuse holder circumscribes and holds a majority of a first semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the first end of the cylindrical fuse body, wherein the second annular portion of the first fuse holder circumscribes and holds a majority of a second semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the first end of the cylindrical fuse body, wherein the first annular portion of the second fuse holder circumscribes and holds a majority of the first semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the second end of the cylindrical fuse body, and wherein the second annular portion of the second fuse holder circumscribes and holds a majority of the second semi-circumference of the cylindrical fuse body at the second end of the cylindrical fuse body.

18. A power distribution circuit comprising the electrical circuit of claim 11.

19. A power distribution unit, comprising: an electrical circuit including a fuse device; and Fuse holder, wherein the fuse body of the fuse device is mechanically secured in place via a first portion of the fuse holder that holds the fuse body, wherein the electrical terminals of the fuse device are mechanically secured in place via holes in the second portion of the fuse holder in which the securing mechanism, the electrical terminals and the busbar are received, and The current flows from the busbar through the fuse device, but does not flow through or be interrupted by the fuse holder.

20. The power distribution unit according to claim 19, wherein The fuse holder holds the fuse body at a first end of the fuse body and a second end of the fuse body.

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