Adapter Device for Low Voltage Switching Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adapter devices for low voltage switching devices require complex structural work, occupy significant space, and are inflexible, making them difficult to install and reconfigure, especially in applications like ships and hospitals where power disconnection is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A prismatic adapter device with removable coupling terminals that can be installed quickly and reversibly, allowing connection to both horizontal and vertical bus bars without prior structural work, enabling compact and flexible installation solutions without modifying the original bus bar system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional adapter devices are used for connection, then mechanical and electrical connection is achieved, but complex structural work is required and installation is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter device is divided into distinct functional components: a body portion that interfaces with the switching device, and coupling terminals that interface with the bus bar system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates rapid assembly without complex structural preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter device serves as an intermediary component between the switching device and the bus bar system. It provides standardized coupling terminals that can be quickly connected to various bus bar configurations without requiring structural modifications to either the switching device or the bus bar system.
2Productivity
If conventional adapter devices are used, then connection is established, but significant space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling terminals are designed to nest closely against the bus bar system, with the body portion of the adapter fitting tightly around the switching device connections. This nested arrangement minimizes the overall volume occupied by the adapter while maintaining all necessary electrical and mechanical connection functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adapter devices are used, then connection is made, but reconfiguration is difficult and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling terminals are designed with removable and reconfigurable features, allowing the adapter to be easily disconnected and reconnected to different bus bar configurations. This dynamic design enables rapid reconfiguration of the electrical system without requiring complex structural modifications or specialized tools.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional adapter devices are used, then connection is established, but labor and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter device is pre-configured with coupling terminals that are ready for immediate connection to the bus bar system. The body portion is pre-assembled with the electrical connection components, eliminating the need for on-site structural work or complex assembly procedures during installation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an adapter device (1) for connection of a low voltage switching device (2) to a distribution bus bar system (3). The adapter device comprises a body (5) provided with a front wall, which can be connected to the switching device, and a back wall, opposite the front wall. The device comprises first electrical terminals (41) susceptible to electrically contact one of the distribution bus bars and second electrical terminals (42). The device also comprises first electrical connections (21) electrically connected to first electrical terminals and which can be coupled with corresponding third electrical connections (23) of the switching device. The adapter device is also provided with second electrical connection means (22) connected to corresponding second electrical terminals and which can be coupled with corresponding fourth electrical connections (24) of the switching device. The adapter device also comprises a plurality of coupling terminals (8), at least partly emerging from the back wall of the body, to removably connect the adapter device to the distribution bus bar system (3). In particular, each of the first electrical terminals electrically contacts one of the distribution bars following the action of one of said coupling terminals.