Distribution Connector Layout for Mixed-Shape Conductor Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection devices lack flexibility in accommodating conductor bars of varying shapes and sizes, leading to increased maintenance and installation costs due to the need for additional devices or tools when changes occur.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connection device with a distribution connector featuring receptacles of different geometric configurations, including round and polygonal openings, allowing for the connection of conductor bars with varying transverse cross-sections, and a staggered arrangement of receptacles to facilitate easy exchange and reduce device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a distribution connector has fixed geometric openings for conductor bars, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different conductor bar shapes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution connector is designed with multiple receptacles that can accommodate different types of conductor bars (round, rectangular, triangular cross-sections) through geometrically shaped openings. This universal design allows a single connector to perform multiple functions by accepting various conductor bar geometries, thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple specialized connectors for different conductor types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized connectors are used for different conductor bar types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functionality of multiple specialized connectors into a single distribution connector by providing multiple receptacles with different geometric opening configurations within one device. This consolidation allows the connector to handle round, rectangular, and triangular conductor bars simultaneously, reducing the total number of devices needed while maintaining high adaptability to different conductor types.
3Ease of operation
If receptacles are arranged in a compact configuration, then device size is reduced, but ease of operation for conductor exchange is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacles are arranged in a staggered configuration along the longitudinal axis of the distribution connector rather than in a compact planar layout. This dimensional arrangement allows operators to access and exchange conductor bars more easily by providing sequential access points along the length of the connector, while the overall compact cross-sectional dimensions are maintained to keep the device size manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connection device for electrically connecting a plurality of electrical conductors. The electrical connection device comprises a distribution connector, the distribution connector comprising a first receptacle, a second receptacle, and at least one third receptacle. The first receptacle and the second receptacle each are configured to receive a respective conductor bar, in particular high-current conductor bar, through a respective first and second opening in the distribution connector. The third receptacle is configured to receive a wire through a third opening. The electrical connection device is characterized in that the first opening is round and the second opening is polygonal. The invention relates to a distribution connector for a power distribution block.