Active Grid Bus Bar Connector With Integrated PCB Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for bus bar systems lack a versatile and secure mechanism for coupling devices to both power and control signals, particularly in scenarios requiring multiple functionalities like emergency power switching and dimming control.
Innovation Solution
A multi-use electrical connector featuring pivotally connected housing elements with a printed circuit board (PCB) that securely engages with bus bar conductive strips, allowing for direct electrical coupling and incorporating specialized control signals like PWM and dimming, while providing a lockable mechanism to prevent disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing electrical connectors are used for bus bar systems, then basic electrical coupling is achieved, but versatility for multiple functions (emergency power switching, dimming control) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is designed with a printed circuit board that can handle multiple functions including power transmission, emergency power switching, and dimming control signals. This multi-functional PCB replaces the need for separate connectors for each function, achieving versatility while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple electrical connection functions into a single connector assembly with an integrated PCB. The PCB integrates power conductors, control signal pathways, and grounding connections into one unified structure, merging what would traditionally require multiple separate connectors.
2Reliability
If basic electrical coupling is provided, then connection is achieved, but secure engagement preventing disconnection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions from an open state during installation to a locked state upon connection. The PCB and housing elements are designed to move and engage with latch features that automatically secure the connection, providing reliability while maintaining ease of operation through simple insert-and-lock action.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separable housing elements that can be independently assembled and connected. This segmentation allows for easy installation by connecting individual sections, while the segmented design incorporates locking features that secure each section, achieving both ease of operation and reliable engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for use in coupling a load device to electrical conductors of a direct current bus bar. The connector has a housing and the housing carrying a printed circuit board that is electrically coupled to the bus bar and the load device. The printed circuit board functions to control the providing of direct current power from the bus bar to the load device, provide a dimming signal to the load device, and/or selectively provide direct current from a source of emergency power to the load device.