Insulated Capacitive Block Frame for Compact Arc Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

In capacitive blocks used in electric or hybrid vehicles, the existing structure is bulky due to the casing and resin, and the components outside the resin are not adequately protected from the environment, leading to potential electrical hazards.

Innovation Solution

A capacitive block design featuring a conductive plate electrically connected to the capacitive element, surrounded by an electrically insulating frame that forms a skirt to prevent electrical currents from flowing through the air, combined with an insulating film and thermally conductive material to enhance protection and heat dissipation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the capacitive element is fully embedded in resin with a casing, then the capacitive element is protected from moisture and supported, but the bulk of the capacitive block increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from moistureVSAvoidbulk of capacitive block
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the protection system into two segments: resin embedding for moisture protection of the capacitive element, and a separate frame structure for electrical insulation of exposed conductive parts. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without excessive bulk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame structure extends in a dimensional direction perpendicular to the main capacitive element assembly, providing electrical insulation without increasing the footprint area. The frame's vertical extension allows insulation of conductive plates without adding significant bulk to the main body.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of stationary object

If the casing height is reduced to limit bulk, then the volume of the capacitive block decreases, but the conductive elements outside the resin are not adequately protected from the environment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebulk of capacitive blockVSAvoidelectrical protection of conductive elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame acts as an intermediary structure between the exposed conductive elements and the external environment. It provides electrical insulation without requiring full encapsulation in resin, thus protecting conductive plates while maintaining compact dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If a frame structure is added to insulate conductive plates, then electrical protection is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical insulation of conductive plateVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical insulation for conductive plates, structural support for the capacitive element, and a mounting framework for the entire assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The solution reduces the bulk of the capacitive block while effectively insulating the conductive components from the environment, preventing electrical arcs and ensuring reliable operation in vehicle applications.

Implementation Method 1

a first frame made of electrically insulating material coming into register with a peripheral edge of said conductive plate so as to electrically insulate said plate from an environment of the capacitive block

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

combined with an insulating film and thermally conductive material to enhance protection and heat dissipation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS11749456B2Capacitive block comprising a frame of electrically insulating material
Publication Date: 2023.09.05 VALEO SIEMENS EAUTOMOTIVE FRANCE SAS
  • US11749456B2 patent drawing
  • US11749456B2 patent drawing
  • US11749456B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A capacitive block includes at least one capacitive element, a first electrical conductor that includes at least one electrically conductive plate abutting a first end of the at least one capacitive element so as to be electrically connected to the at least one capacitive element, and a first frame made of electrically insulating material coming into register with a peripheral edge of the at least one electrically conductive plate so as to electrically insulate the at least one electrically conductive plate from an environment of the capacitive block.