Current Transformer Support Bracket for PCB Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting current transformers to printed circuit boards are labor-intensive and costly, requiring additional components like bolts and plastic housings, which increase labor and expenses.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system that is soldered to the printed circuit board, featuring apertures and mounting tabs to securely hold the current transformer in place while allowing electrical current to flow through, constructed from conductive materials like phosphor bronze alloy to ensure efficient electrical connectivity without overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a bolt or other conductor is used in addition to the plastic housing to hold the current transformer to the printed circuit board, then the current transformer is securely mounted, but the labor and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket merges the mounting function and electrical conduction function into a single integrated component. The bracket is soldered to the printed circuit board to provide secure mechanical mounting, while simultaneously serving as the electrical conductor to carry current through the current transformer, eliminating the need for separate bolts or conductors
Solution Approach 2:
The support bracket performs multiple functions: it provides mechanical support and secure mounting of the current transformer to the printed circuit board, serves as an electrical conductor to carry current through the transformer, and provides structural stability. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional separate components
2Reliability
If a plastic housing with additional conductor is used to mount the current transformer, then the transformer is held in place, but the device complexity and component quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket combines the mounting structure and electrical conductor into one integrated component, eliminating the need for separate plastic housings and additional conductors. The bracket is directly soldered to the PCB, providing both mechanical stability and electrical connectivity in a single element
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates unnecessary components from the traditional mounting system. By using the support bracket as both the mounting structure and electrical conductor, the patent removes the need for separate plastic housings, bolts, and additional conductors, simplifying the overall assembly
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 bracket system reduces labor and costs by providing a secure, soldered mounting solution for current transformers on printed circuit boards, enabling efficient electrical current flow and supporting the transformer without the need for additional components, while also functioning as part of the primary winding and potentially fusing under overload conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The bracket is preferably structured to allow electrical current to flow therethrough and through the opening of the current transformer
Implementation Method 2
the bracket can provide support to the current transformer while the bracket is, for example, soldered to the printed circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket is provided for supporting a current transformer on a printed circuit board including a first aperture and a second aperture. The bracket includes a base portion including first and second ends, the base portion extending therebetween; a first mounting portion extending laterally from the first end of the base portion to an end of the first mounting portion, the first mounting portion being structured to be coupled with the first aperture in the printed circuit board; and a second mounting portion extending laterally from the second end of the base portion to an end of the second mounting portion, the second mounting portion being structured to be coupled with the second aperture in the printed circuit board. The end of the first mounting portion forms a first tab and the end of the second mounting portion forms a second tab, which are structured to extend through and be coupled with the first and second apertures, respectively.