Modular Bus Grounding via Conductive Bridge Strap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical bus systems for pneumatic valve manifolds face challenges in grounding when using non-metallic materials, as they lack the necessary electrical conductivity, limiting the use of lightweight yet structurally sound materials like plastic or fiberglass.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical serial fieldbus system with bridge members that connect adjacent modular units via an electrically conductive strap, providing a continuous grounding circuit through non-conductive housing materials, allowing for mechanical and electrical connectivity while ensuring electrical conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If non-metallic materials (plastic or fiberglass) are used for housing, then weight is reduced and structural soundness is improved, but electrical conductivity for grounding is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a separate grounding system comprising conductive elements (such as conductive strips or pins) that act as intermediaries between the non-conductive housing and the grounding circuit. These conductive elements are embedded within or attached to the housing, providing a dedicated path for electrical grounding without requiring the housing material itself to be conductive. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by decoupling the structural function of the housing from the electrical grounding function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction where non-conductive housing materials (plastic or fiberglass) are combined with conductive elements (metal strips, pins, or coatings) to create a hybrid structure. The composite housing integrates both the lightweight, structurally sound non-metallic material and the electrically conductive material needed for grounding, allowing the system to simultaneously achieve weight reduction and maintain grounding reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular design with removable I/O modules is implemented, then adaptability and ease of replacement are improved, but maintaining continuous grounding circuit becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the grounding function with the mechanical connection system by integrating conductive grounding elements into the bridge members or connection interfaces. The same physical connection that mechanically joins modular units also establishes the electrical grounding circuit, eliminating the need for separate grounding components and simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining modular adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the bridge members and connection interfaces to serve multiple functions: mechanical support, electrical signal transmission, and grounding circuit continuity. This multi-functional design allows a single component to fulfill several roles, reducing the number of separate components needed and simplifying the grounding system while preserving the benefits of modular design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the use of lightweight non-metallic materials for housing while maintaining effective grounding, allowing for modular and flexible distribution of I/O modules, including remote mounting without the need for specialized components, and ensuring reliable electrical connectivity.
Implementation Method 1
The bridge member has an electrically conductive strap mounted therein which is in electrical contact with the ground contacts of the two adjacent modular units
Data Source
AI summary
A modular electrical bus system has a grounding circuit through a plurality of modular units with each unit being both electrically and mechanically connectable together via a bridge member connecting adjacent units and the main communication module. The bridge member and modular units are grounded together with a ground circuit that extends within both components.