Feedthrough Capacitor Assembly Clamping Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Feedthrough capacitors in high current applications face challenges due to inertial forces exceeding the friction from the limited clamping force, requiring external enclosures and potting materials, which can lead to thermal damage and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A film-wound feedthrough capacitor assembly with a mounting structure featuring a shaft and tubular conductive member that applies a clamping force to secure the substrate independently, using a resilient member to manage the clamping force and avoid thermal issues, allowing for secure attachment without subjecting the capacitor to the full clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the clamping force is increased to secure high current conductors, then the friction increases, but the compressive strength of the feedthrough capacitor is exceeded causing thermal damage
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is divided into separate functional components: a clamping mechanism for applying force to the conductor and a feedthrough capacitor for electrical connection. The clamping force is applied through the mounting structure rather than directly through the capacitor, separating the mechanical securing function from the electrical function.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure acts as an intermediary between the clamping force and the feedthrough capacitor. It transmits the clamping force to secure the conductor while protecting the capacitor from direct exposure to high compressive forces that would cause thermal damage.
2Strength
If external enclosures and potting material are added to protect the capacitor, then the compressive strength increases, but the device complexity and thermal management worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The protective and structural functions previously requiring external enclosures and potting material are extracted and integrated into the mounting structure itself. The mounting structure provides both mechanical support and protection without requiring additional external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure combines multiple functions: it provides mechanical support, applies clamping force, and protects the feedthrough capacitor. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate external enclosures and potting material, reducing device complexity while maintaining protective capabilities.
3Reliability
If soldering is used to attach electrode washers to feedthrough capacitors, then the electrical connection improves, but the thermal mass causes thermal damage and external enclosures are still required
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure serves as an intermediary that handles thermal management and mechanical clamping, allowing the feedthrough capacitor to maintain reliable electrical connections without being directly exposed to the thermal stress of soldering or high current loads.
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 solution provides a secure and efficient attachment of the feedthrough capacitor to the substrate, reducing thermal risks and eliminating the need for external enclosures and potting materials, while maintaining high-frequency conduction paths with low impedance.
Implementation Method 1
The capacitor assembly provides a resilient member exerting a second clamping force independent of the first clamping force for securing the capacitor to the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A feedthrough capacitor assembly including a film-wound feedthrough capacitor and a mounting structure insulatively carrying the capacitor, the structure extendable through an opening in a conductive substrate and removably securable to the substrate. In response to opposed ends of the mounting structure applying a clamping force for non-movingly securing the capacitor to the substrate, the capacitor is not subjected to at least a portion of the clamping force.