Ceramic Wire Terminal Protector to Contain Arc Discharge Flames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wire terminal connectors in household appliances, particularly those using fiberglass sleeves and plastic casings, are prone to ignition and connection failures, leading to potential fires due to flammable materials and arc discharges, and the copper ring can melt and ignite other components.
Innovation Solution
A wire terminal protector design comprising a first and second component forming an enclosed space with through-holes for wire insertion, a partition, and a protrusion for assembly, using ceramic materials to prevent flame propagation and include a bracket for secure installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fiberglass sleeve and plastic casing are used in wire terminal connector, then the connector can be manufactured with existing materials and processes, but the flammable materials can ignite and burn other plastic components under high temperature
Solution Approach 1:
A ceramic bead is introduced as an intermediary component between the wire terminal and the enclosing structure. The ceramic material serves as a heat-resistant barrier that prevents flame propagation while maintaining the manufacturability of the overall assembly through simple integration with existing fiberglass sleeves and plastic casings.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution combines ceramic material with existing fiberglass and plastic components to create a composite structure. The ceramic bead is integrated into the fiberglass sleeve, forming a hybrid assembly that leverages the fire resistance of ceramic while maintaining the electrical insulation and structural properties of fiberglass and plastic.
2Device complexity
If closed-end terminal connecting method is used, then the connection can be established with simple structure, but the connection has certain probability of failure which can result in arc discharges and high temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The ceramic bead is positioned in advance within the fiberglass sleeve to provide protective cushioning around the wire terminal connection point. This pre-positioned protective element is designed to contain potential arc discharges and high-temperature effects before they can propagate to surrounding plastic components, thereby enhancing connection reliability without complicating the overall structure.
3Reliability
If copper ring is used in closed-end terminal, then the electrical connection can be established, but the copper ring can be melted under intense combustion and burn through fiberglass sleeve to ignite other plastic components
Solution Approach 1:
The ceramic bead serves as a thermal intermediary between the copper ring and the fiberglass sleeve. It absorbs and dissipates heat generated during intense combustion, preventing the copper ring from melting and burning through the fiberglass sleeve, thereby blocking fire propagation while maintaining electrical connection functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A wire terminal protector, an assembly component, and a household cooking appliance are provided. The wire terminal protector includes a first component and a second component. The first component and the second component are assembled to form an enclosed space. One or both of the first component and the second component are provided with a first through-hole that connects the enclosed space to an outside. A wire terminal is accommodated in the enclosed space, and the first through-hole is configured for insertion of a wire into the enclosed space.