Electrical Assembly Orientation Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical assemblies are complex and lack sufficient functionality, particularly in supporting members connected to electrical components, which may not be easily oriented with track assemblies for efficient power distribution.

Innovation Solution

An electrical assembly comprising a track assembly, a control circuit, and a support assembly, where the control circuit automatically connects bus bars to the appropriate terminals of a power source regardless of the support assembly's orientation, utilizing relays and diodes to ensure proper power distribution and prevent reverse pulses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the support assembly is connected to the track assembly in multiple orientations, then the adaptability of the electrical assembly is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for additional switching mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorientation adaptabilityVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control circuit is designed to automatically adapt to different support assembly orientations (first and second orientations) without requiring manual intervention or complex external control systems. The circuit universally handles both orientations through integrated relay and diode components that automatically route power correctly regardless of how the support assembly is positioned on the track.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The electrical assembly performs self-configuration through automatic detection of support assembly orientation. The control circuit automatically determines the correct terminal connections based on the physical orientation of the support assembly and self-adjusts the relay switching states without external control signals, enabling the system to service itself across multiple operational configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If automatic terminal connection is implemented regardless of orientation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure reliable automatic switching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection easeVSAvoidswitching precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Relay components serve as intermediary switching mechanisms between the power source terminals and the support assembly terminals. The relays automatically close or open specific circuits based on the detected orientation, mediating the connection process and eliminating the need for precise manual terminal alignment while maintaining reliable electrical connections through standardized relay contact points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical terminal alignment and switching mechanisms with an electrical control system using relays and diodes. Instead of requiring precise mechanical positioning of terminals for different orientations, the system uses electrical signals detected by the control circuit to automatically switch relay contacts, substituting mechanical precision requirements with electrical control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If relays and diodes are used for automatic connection, then the reliability of power distribution is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol circuit components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control circuit is segmented into functionally distinct components: relays for terminal switching, diodes for polarity protection and reverse pulse prevention, and a power source for energy supply. Each component performs a specific function in the power distribution chain, allowing for modular analysis and maintenance while collectively ensuring reliable automatic connection across different support assembly orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables efficient and reliable power distribution to support assemblies in various orientations, ensuring consistent operation and minimizing noise and wear on electrical components.

Implementation Method 1

The first diode may be configured to permit current to flow to energize the first coil. If the support assembly is connected to the track in the second orientation, the second diode may be configured to permit current to flow to energize the second coil.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode: Diode

Implementation Method 2

A first coil of the first relay and/or a second coil of the second relay may be configured to be energized when electrically connected to the first bus bar.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnet: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentUS11299075B2Electrical assembly
Publication Date: 2022.04.12 LEAR CORP
  • US11299075B2 patent drawing
  • US11299075B2 patent drawing
  • US11299075B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical assembly includes a track assembly, a control circuit, and a support assembly. The track assembly may include a first bus bar, and/or the first bus bar may be configured for connection with a first terminal of a power source. The track assembly may include a second track that may have a second bus bar, and/or the second bus bar may be configured for connection with a second terminal of said power source. The support assembly may be configured for connection with the track in a first orientation and/or in a second orientation. The support assembly may include a positive terminal and/or a negative terminal.