Fuse Adapter Kit for Switch-Fuse Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing switch-fuse modules lack flexibility to adapt to varying urban power distribution demands, particularly in terms of accommodating fuses of different lengths and voltages, which poses challenges in cost-effectively meeting changing customer requirements.

Innovation Solution

A fuse adapter kit with a hollow fuse canister and terminals that allow for mechanical and electrical connections, enabling the use of fuses of different lengths and types, and including multiple fuse mounting openings for adjustable voltage and current compatibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed fuse configuration is used in switch-fuse modules, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but adaptability to different fuse lengths and voltages is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different fuse lengths and voltagesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fuse adapter kit is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate multiple fuse types, lengths, and voltage ratings through a single standardized interface. The adapter kit includes interchangeable components that enable the same basic structure to work with different fuse specifications, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fixtures and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The fuse adapter kit is divided into separable components including the main adapter body, interchangeable terminals, and mounting elements. This segmentation allows individual components to be replaced or adjusted based on the specific fuse requirements without replacing the entire assembly, thereby maintaining simplicity while enabling versatility for different fuse configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If customised fuse solutions are provided for each customer requirement, then adaptability is improved, but costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomisation to user environmentVSAvoidcost-effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter kit provides a universal platform that can be configured for different customer requirements using the same basic components. By designing a single adaptable system rather than multiple custom solutions, manufacturing costs are reduced while still enabling customization for various user environments through selective component assembly.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter kit enables parameter changes in fuse specifications (length, voltage rating, current capacity) through interchangeable components and adjustable mounting positions. This allows the system to adapt to different customer parameters without requiring custom manufacturing, thereby maintaining cost-effectiveness while providing the necessary customization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fuse mounting options are provided, then flexibility for different fuse types is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility for different fuse typesVSAvoidnumber of mounting openings and connectors
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple mounting openings and connector types are integrated into a single universal adapter design that serves all fuse types. Rather than creating separate mounting structures for each fuse type, the universal adapter incorporates multiple mounting positions and connector variations within one standardized component, thereby providing flexibility without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11574786B2Fuse adapter kit for a fuse of a switch-fuse module
Publication Date: 2023.02.07 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • US11574786B2 patent drawing
  • US11574786B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fuse adapter kit for a fuse of a switch-fuse module and a switch-fuse module. The fuse adapter kit includes: a fuse canister having an axially elongated fuse receiving portion adapted to receive the fuse; and at least one terminal having i) an axial fuse receiving opening for receiving an axial end portion of the fuse, ii) a lateral protrusion forming a mechanical male connector, and iii) an electrical terminal connector laterally arranged within the mechanical male connector for electrically connecting the fuse to an electrical canister connector; wherein the fuse canister has a fuse mounting wall portion extending axially along a back side of the fuse receiving portion, the fuse mounting wall portion having at least three fuse mounting openings at different axial positions along the fuse mounting wall portion, each of the fuse mounting openings forming a mechanical female connector matching the mechanical male connector of the terminal to form a mechanical plug connection, and wherein the fuse canister further includes the electrical canister connector arranged at at least one of the fuse mounting openings for electrically connecting to the electrical terminal connector.