A fast AC / DC switching connector

Abstract

This utility model discloses an AC / DC fast switching connector, including a connecting post, several connecting components, and side plates. The two ends of the connecting post are respectively detachably fixed with side plates. The connecting components are disposed between the two side plates and are movably inserted on the connecting post. The connecting components include connecting guides and insulating spacers, which are detachably connected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model is an AC / DC fast switching connector. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of technologies such as big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, data centers, as the core of information infrastructure, are experiencing continuous increases in construction scale and energy consumption, thus placing higher demands on the reliability, efficiency, and scalability of power supply systems. Traditional data centers generally use AC power distribution systems, with a typical topology of three-phase AC (L1, L2, L3) combined with a neutral line (N) and protective earth (PE) to form a five-wire power supply architecture. However, this AC system involves multiple AC / DC conversions during power conversion, resulting in energy loss, reduced efficiency, and increased complexity of the power supply system.

[0003] In recent years, with the pilot and application promotion of DC power distribution technology, especially 380V DC systems, in data centers, DC systems, with their advantages of high energy efficiency, simplified topology, and reduced losses, have become the development direction of future green data centers. Especially in green energy access, smart microgrids, and backup power systems, DC solutions have significant advantages in cost control and operational efficiency.

[0004] However, traditional power distribution systems differ significantly in component structure, wiring methods, and protection mechanisms when designed for AC or DC. Switching from an AC system to a DC system typically requires replacing the entire busbar trunking, distribution box, connection terminals, and related accessories. This not only involves a large amount of engineering work and a long construction period but also brings huge economic costs and the risk of operational interruption.

[0005] Currently, there is a lack of a connection device on the market that can adapt to both AC and DC modes, has rapid switching capabilities, and does not require modification of the existing busbar structure. This has become a key technical challenge that urgently needs to be solved in data center power supply architecture upgrades or switching between different power supply environments.

[0006] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention proposes an AC / DC fast switching connector that employs a standardized mechanical structure and replaceable internal conductor components. This allows it to function as a connection node for AC systems and also enables parallel connection of DC systems by replacing conductor modules. This satisfies the requirement of data centers to achieve AC / DC system conversion without replacing busbars during operation, significantly improving the flexibility and compatibility of the power supply system. Utility Model Content:

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide an AC / DC fast switching connector.

[0008] An AC / DC fast switching connector includes a connecting post, several connecting components, and side plates. The two ends of the connecting post are respectively detachably fixedly fitted with side plates. The connecting components are disposed between the two side plates and are movably fitted onto the connecting post. The connecting components include connecting guides and insulating spacers, which are detachably connected.

[0009] Furthermore, the plurality of connecting components include a first connecting component, a second connecting component, and a third connecting component. The first connecting component and the second connecting component are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the third connecting component, and connecting guide plates are provided on the opposite end faces of the connecting components.

[0010] Furthermore, the first connecting component includes a first insulating sleeve and a first connecting guide plate. The first insulating sleeve has a mounting groove on one end face, and the connecting guide plate is snapped into the mounting groove.

[0011] Furthermore, the second connecting assembly includes two second connecting guide plates and a second insulating spacer. The second connecting guide plate has a structure with a central protrusion and recessed sides. The two second connecting guide plates are arranged in a mirror image of each other. The surfaces of the central protrusion are connected, and the grooves formed by the recessed sides are used to install the second insulating spacer. The second connecting guide plates are fixedly connected to each other by multiple bolts.

[0012] Furthermore, the third connecting component includes a third connecting guide plate and a third insulating sleeve. Both ends of the third insulating sleeve are provided with mounting grooves, and the third connecting guide plate is snapped into the mounting grooves.

[0013] Furthermore, a T-shaped through groove is provided in the middle of one end face of the side plate, and a bowl-shaped elastic pad is provided in the through groove. During installation, the end face with the T-shaped through groove is closer to the end of the connecting column. Each side plate is provided with a limiting member on both sides, and the limiting member is fixedly connected to the connecting column.

[0014] Furthermore, the limiting component includes a stop block fixedly sleeved on the connecting column and an insulating limiting tube. The insulating limiting tube has a stepped structure, and a groove with a stepped structure corresponding to the insulating limiting tube is provided at the center of the other end face of the side plate. The insulating limiting tube is detachably sleeved on the connecting column, and the stop block abuts against the cup pad.

[0015] Furthermore, the connecting column is a bolt, the stop on one side of the connecting column is the bolt head, and the stop on the other side is a nut.

[0016] Beneficial effects: Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0017] First, it enables rapid switching between AC and DC power distribution systems. Without replacing the main structure of the busbar trunking, the system can be switched from AC power supply (L1L2L3 / N / PE) to DC power supply (++-- / PE) simply by replacing the connecting conductor components inside the connector. This greatly simplifies the system upgrade process, significantly shortens the construction cycle, and reduces the risk of system downtime.

[0018] Secondly, the modular design allows for detachable assembly of each connecting component onto the connecting posts, facilitating not only assembly but also subsequent maintenance and replacement. The rationally designed connecting components with different functions (such as the first, second, and third connecting components) can be flexibly configured according to circuit requirements, enhancing the connector's versatility and adaptability.

[0019] Furthermore, by setting irregularly shaped conductors and bidirectional conduction structures, adjacent phase lines can be connected in parallel during the conversion process, effectively balancing current distribution, improving system power transmission efficiency, reducing local heating and contact resistance, and enhancing the electrical performance and operational reliability of the connector.

[0020] In addition, the connector incorporates auxiliary positioning and buffer structures such as T-slots, bowl-shaped elastic pads, and stepped limiting tubes, which improve mechanical assembly accuracy and vibration resistance, effectively prevent component loosening or failure, and ensure long-term operational stability and safety.

[0021] Overall, this invention not only improves the technical flexibility and economic adaptability of data center power supply systems during AC / DC switching, but also ensures high reliability, high efficiency and high maintainability of the device through structural innovation and connection optimization. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the connector;

[0023] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the connector;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the second connecting component;

[0025] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the second connecting component;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the connector and the DC bus;

[0027] In the diagram, 1 is the connecting column, 2 is the side plate, 3 is the elastic pad, 4 is the insulating limiting tube, 5 is the first insulating sleeve, 6 is the first connecting guide plate, 7 is the second insulating sleeve, 8 is the second connecting guide plate, 9 is the third connecting guide plate, 10 is the third insulating sleeve, and 11 is the locking nut. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To enhance understanding of this utility model, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to explain the present utility model and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0029] An AC / DC fast switching connector includes a connecting post 1, several connecting components, and side plates 2. The two ends of the connecting post 1 are respectively detachably fixedly connected to the side plates 2. The connecting components are disposed between the two side plates 2 and are movably connected to the connecting post 1. The connecting components include connecting guides and insulating spacers, which are detachably connected.

[0030] The connecting post 1 provides axial support for the connector, with its two ends passing through side plates 2 located at its axial ends. The side plates 2 are detachably fixed to the connecting post 1 by bolts or plug-in connections, facilitating quick replacement or maintenance. Multiple connecting assemblies are evenly spaced or arranged as needed between two side plates 2. The connecting assemblies can slide or be assembled along the axial direction of the connecting post 1, ensuring flexibility in installation and disassembly. Each connecting assembly consists of a connecting guide plate and an insulating spacer. The connecting guide plate is used to establish the current flow path, and the insulating spacer isolates conductive components to prevent short circuits. The connecting guide plate and the insulating spacer are detachably connected by snap-fit ​​or screw-in connections, facilitating individual replacement of any component.

[0031] This structural design enables rapid switching between AC and DC modes for electrical connection components. The modular connection components and detachable mounting methods improve the efficiency and safety of the system during installation, maintenance, and replacement. Furthermore, the clear functional division of each component facilitates standardized production and maintenance.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the plurality of connecting components include a first connecting component, a second connecting component, and a third connecting component. The first connecting component and the second connecting component are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the third connecting component, and connecting guide plates are provided on the opposite end faces of the connecting components.

[0033] In this embodiment, by setting three functionally differentiated connecting components and symmetrically arranging them around the third connecting component, structural stability and compatibility with various electrical connection requirements are achieved. The third connecting component is located in the middle and serves as the main connecting hub, with the first connecting component and the second connecting component respectively located on its two sides. Electrical connections are achieved between the connecting components through connecting guides at their ends, and the contact surfaces between the guides are designed to match to ensure reliable electrical contact. Through this symmetrical distribution design, the connector can improve structural symmetry and mechanical balance while ensuring overall electrical performance, and reduce wear on contact components due to off-center loads.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the first connecting assembly includes a first insulating sleeve 5 and a first connecting guide plate 6. The first insulating sleeve 5 has a mounting groove on one end face, and the connecting guide plate is snapped into the mounting groove.

[0035] In this embodiment, the first connecting assembly has a compact structure. By placing the mounting groove on the end face of the first insulating sleeve 5, the insertion and fixation of the first connecting guide 6 is facilitated. The snap-fit ​​method simplifies the assembly process, improves installation efficiency, and ensures that the connecting guide is not easily dislodged or loosened during electrical connection. The insulating sleeve provides necessary electrical isolation and enhances the overall safety performance of the connector. The connecting guide serves as the main current channel, connecting adjacent components or lead-out cables.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the second connecting assembly includes two second connecting guide plates 8 and a second insulating spacer 7. The second connecting guide plate 8 has a structure with a central protrusion and recessed sides. The two second connecting guide plates 8 are arranged in a mirror image of each other. The surfaces of the central protrusion are connected, and the grooves formed by the recessed sides are used to install the second insulating spacer 7. The second connecting guide plates 8 are fixedly connected to each other by multiple bolts.

[0037] This structure employs a second connecting guide plate 8 arranged in a relatively mirrored configuration, ensuring excellent mating during the connection process. The raised surfaces of the two guide plates in the middle fit together to form a conductive path, while the recessed portions on both sides enclose a cavity structure to accommodate the second insulating spacer 7. This design not only ensures tight contact between the guide plates but also enhances the fixation of the insulation assembly and overall protection capabilities, effectively preventing the risks of short circuits and poor contact. The bolted connection achieves tight fixation between the guide plates, enhancing the mechanical strength and electrical continuity of the connection. This structure is suitable for applications with high current or high requirements for contact stability. The bolted connection facilitates disassembly and replacement, improving the ease of maintenance of the device.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the third connecting component includes a third connecting guide plate 9 and a third insulating sleeve 10. Both ends of the third insulating sleeve 10 are provided with mounting grooves, and the third connecting guide plate 9 is snapped into the mounting grooves.

[0039] This implementation uses a double-sided mounting structure, allowing the third connecting guide plate 9 to be inserted into and fixed in the mounting groove from both ends of the insulating sleeve. This structure is suitable for applications with high current or high requirements for contact stability. The bolt connection method facilitates disassembly and replacement, improving the ease of maintenance of the lifting device.

[0040] In one possible implementation, a T-shaped through groove is provided in the middle of one end face of the side plate 2, and a bowl-shaped elastic pad 3 is provided in the through groove. During installation, the end face with the T-shaped through groove is closer to the end of the connecting column 1. Each side plate 2 is provided with a limiting member on both sides, and the limiting member is fixedly connected to the connecting column 1.

[0041] This structure, through the inclusion of T-shaped slots and bowl-shaped elastic pads 3, achieves automatic positioning and shock absorption during the installation of the side plate 2. The bowl-shaped elastic pads 3 provide flexible support to the side plate 2, reducing mechanical impact between the side plate 2 and other components. The slots are located near the ends of the connecting columns 1, facilitating alignment during installation. Each side plate 2 is equipped with limiting components on both sides to ensure that the side plate 2 remains fixed and does not shift, improving assembly accuracy and structural stability.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the limiting member includes a stop block fixedly sleeved on the connecting column 1 and an insulating limiting tube 4. The insulating limiting tube 4 has a stepped structure. A groove with a stepped structure corresponding to the insulating limiting tube 4 is provided at the center of the other end face of the side plate 2. The insulating limiting tube 4 is detachably sleeved on the connecting column 1, and the stop block abuts against the cup pad.

[0043] In this embodiment, the stop block and the cup pad form an effective limiting and buffering structure to prevent axial movement of the connecting column 1. The stepped insulating limiting tube 4 can be precisely embedded into the corresponding groove to achieve multi-level limiting cooperation, improving the positioning accuracy and anti-disturbance capability of the structure. Through the detachable installation method, users can replace or adjust the limiting tube according to maintenance needs, improving the flexibility and maintainability of the system.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the connecting post 1 is a bolt, with a stop on one side of the connecting post 1 being the bolt head and a stop on the other side being a nut.

[0045] In this embodiment, a bolt structure is used as the connecting column 1, with one side fixed by the bolt head and the other side limited by a nut. The structure is simple and easy to tighten. This structure can achieve axial pre-tightening of the connecting column 1, increasing the clamping force between components, thereby ensuring a stable connection between each connecting component and the side plate 2. At the same time, this method also helps to achieve rapid assembly and disassembly of components, improving usage efficiency.

[0046] Working Principle: The AC / DC fast switching connector provided by this invention mainly utilizes a modular mechanical structure and conductive connection method to achieve rapid switching between AC and DC power distribution systems. The connector consists of connecting posts 1, multiple functional connecting components, side plates 2, and limiting structures. Its core features lie in the replaceability of the conductor structure within the connecting components and the organization of its conductive paths.

[0047] During assembly, the connecting column 1 (preferably a bolt structure) serves as the main axis, through which the side plate 2, insulating limiting pipe 4, first connecting assembly, second connecting assembly, third connecting assembly, second connecting assembly, first connecting assembly, insulating limiting pipe 4, and the other side plate 2 are sequentially passed, and finally fixed by the locking nut 11, so that all parts form an integrated and compact structure. Each connecting assembly realizes current isolation, transmission, and parallel connection, and its internal connecting plates are pre-designed and installed according to the power distribution mode (AC or DC).

[0048] The first connecting component forms a basic unidirectional current path by combining the connecting plate and the insulating sleeve; the second connecting component adopts an irregular double-conductor structure to achieve mirror bonding and form a conductive path by aligning the two components together in the middle of the conductor, thereby increasing the contact area and forming a stable electrical connection; the third connecting component is equipped with multiple bolt-fastened conductor structures, which can connect adjacent conductors as needed, thereby realizing the parallel connection between phase lines.

[0049] For AC systems (L1L2L3 / N / PE), the internal connecting conductors of the connector maintain independent channels and do not form a continuity. When it is necessary to convert to a DC system (++-- / PE), only the internal guide plate of the connector needs to be replaced so that the adjacent conductors are connected in parallel through the guide plate to form a bidirectional path, forming a positive and negative DC output path. There is no need to replace the overall bus trunking structure.

[0050] To ensure connection stability and ease of operation, the connector also features a T-slot and a bowl-shaped elastic pad 3 structure, providing cushioning and positioning functions; the insulating limiting tube 4 cooperates with the stop on the connecting post 1 to prevent axial sliding or loosening of the components during use. Through the above structure and assembly method, each conductor connection component can meet the power supply requirements of different systems while also allowing for quick disassembly and maintenance, exhibiting high reliability and versatility.

[0051] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. An AC / DC fast switching connector, characterized by, It includes a connecting column, several connecting components, and side plates. The two ends of the connecting column are respectively detachably fixed with side plates. The connecting components are disposed between the two side plates and are movably inserted on the connecting column. The connecting components include connecting guide plates and insulating spacers, which are detachably connected.

2. The connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of connecting components include a first connecting component, a second connecting component, and a third connecting component. The first connecting component and the second connecting component are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the third connecting component, and connecting guide plates are provided on the opposite end faces of the connecting components.

3. The connector of claim 2, wherein The first connecting component includes a first insulating sleeve and a first connecting guide plate. The first insulating sleeve has a mounting groove on one end face, and the connecting guide plate is snapped into the mounting groove.

4. The connector of claim 2, wherein The second connecting assembly includes two second connecting guide plates and a second insulating spacer. The second connecting guide plate has a structure with a central protrusion and two recessed sides. The two second connecting guide plates are arranged in a mirror image of each other. The surfaces of the central protrusion are connected, and the grooves formed by the two recessed sides are used to install the second insulating spacer. The second connecting guide plates are fixedly connected to each other by multiple bolts.

5. The connector of claim 2, wherein, The third connecting component includes a third connecting guide plate and a third insulating spacer. Both ends of the third insulating spacer are provided with mounting grooves, and the third connecting guide plate is snapped into the mounting grooves.

6. The connector of claim 1, wherein, The side plate has a T-shaped through groove in the middle of one end face, and a bowl-shaped elastic pad is provided in the through groove. During installation, the end face with the T-shaped through groove is closer to the end of the connecting column. Each side plate has a limiting member on both sides, and the limiting member is fixedly connected to the connecting column.

7. The connector of claim 6, wherein, The limiting component includes a stop block and an insulating limiting tube fixedly sleeved on the connecting column. The insulating limiting tube has a stepped structure. A groove with a corresponding stepped structure is provided at the center of the other end face of the side plate. The insulating limiting tube is detachably sleeved on the connecting column. The stop block abuts against the cup pad.

8. The connector of claim 7, wherein, The connecting column is a bolt, with a stop on one side of the connecting column being the bolt head and a stop on the other side being a nut.

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