DC Choke Mounting With Anti-Rotation DC Link Capacitor Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for assembling DC chokes with DC link capacitors are cumbersome and require the use of tools for fastening, which complicates the process and increases the risk of misalignment or detachment.

Innovation Solution

A DC choke assembly method that utilizes a fastening feature and an anti-rotation feature to secure the DC choke to the DC link capacitor without the need for tools, allowing for easy alignment and stable attachment through a single-direction fastening process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional fastening methods are used to assemble DC choke to DC link capacitor, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and requires tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly processVSAvoidfastening mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DC choke incorporates self-aligning features including alignment protrusions that fit into corresponding recesses on the DC link capacitor, and self-fastening mechanisms where the choke housing itself acts as the fastening element. This eliminates the need for separate tools or complex fastening procedures, allowing the component to be assembled by simply engaging the features together.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If traditional fastening methods are used, then the connection is secure, but the risk of misalignment or detachment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidassembly process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The DC choke features asymmetric alignment protrusions and corresponding recesses that provide precise positional guidance during assembly. The asymmetric design ensures that the DC choke can only be installed in the correct orientation, eliminating misalignment issues while maintaining simple assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The alignment protrusions and recesses are pre-formed during manufacturing, so that when the DC choke is brought near the DC link capacitor, the features automatically guide the components into proper alignment before final engagement. This preliminary alignment action prevents misalignment and ensures secure connection without requiring additional alignment steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Strength

If multiple fastening points are used, then the DC choke is securely attached, but the assembly process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidfastening structure
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DC choke housing is designed to integrate multiple functions: it provides the electromagnetic choke function, serves as the structural body, incorporates alignment features, and acts as the fastening mechanism itself. By merging these functions into a single integrated component, the design achieves secure attachment without requiring separate fastening elements or complex multi-part structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20250343009A1Apparatus for mounting a DC choke to a DC link capacitor
Publication Date: 2025.11.06 RIVIAN HOLDINGS LLC
  • US20250343009A1 patent drawing
  • US20250343009A1 patent drawing
  • US20250343009A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A capacitor assembly includes a capacitor housing containing a capacitor, the capacitor housing defining at least one capacitor fastener opening and at least one capacitor feature. The capacitor includes a first input terminal and a second input terminal. A direct current (DC) choke defines a terminal opening having the first and second input terminals extending outwardly therefrom. The DC choke defines at least one choke fastener opening configured to receive at least one fastener passing through the at least one capacitor fastener opening. The DC choke further defines at least one choke feature configured to engage the at least one capacitor feature to maintain a position of the DC choke relative to the capacitor housing.