DC Distribution Mounting Module with Conductive Straps

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Solution Overview

Problem

In DC electrical equipment assemblies, the numerous cables used to electrically couple circuit breaker poles result in a cluttered and difficult-to-install configuration within the DC distribution assembly.

Innovation Solution

A mounting module with electrically non-conductive base portions and conductive straps that couple breaker pole assemblies in series, eliminating the need for multiple cables by using conductive straps to connect breaker posts and pole assemblies, allowing for efficient electrical coupling while maintaining the ability to break excess current flow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If numerous cables are used to electrically couple circuit breaker poles in series, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but the DC distribution assembly becomes cluttered and difficult to install

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidcable management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple cable connections into a single bus bar structure. The bus bar serves as a common electrical connection point that replaces numerous individual cables, thereby achieving the same electrical connectivity function while dramatically reducing assembly complexity and clutter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The bus bar performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connectivity between circuit breaker poles, serves as a structural support element, and acts as an organizational framework that simplifies the overall assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cable management components.

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

2Reliability

If numerous cables are used to electrically couple circuit breaker poles, then electrical connectivity is established, but installation becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidinstallation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple cable connections into a single bus bar component, the installation process is simplified from connecting numerous individual cables to connecting a single integrated structure, thereby dramatically improving installation efficiency and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The bus bar is pre-configured with connection points and routing paths before installation. This preliminary preparation allows for faster on-site assembly as the structural framework and electrical connection points are already established, eliminating the need for complex field wiring operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If cables are used to connect breaker pole assemblies, then electrical coupling is achieved, but the assembly results in a cluttered mass of cables

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical couplingVSAvoidassembly organization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The bus bar consolidates multiple cable pathways into a single organized structure with defined routing channels. This merging transforms the chaotic cable mass into a structured, geometrically organized assembly where electrical coupling is maintained while spatial organization is dramatically improved.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8482905B2Mounting modules for a DC distribution assembly
Publication Date: 2013.07.09 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • US8482905B2 patent drawing
  • US8482905B2 patent drawing
  • US8482905B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mounting module for a DC distribution assembly is provided. The module includes a base portion that holds at least first and second electrically conductive straps thereon. The straps are disposed on and coupled to the electrically non-conductive base portion. The module further includes a first breaker pole assembly having a first line side electrically coupled to the first electrically conductive strap. The mounting module further includes a second breaker pole assembly having a second line side electrically coupled to the second electrically conductive strap.