Fuse Connection Unit Merging Fastening and Electrical Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuse blocks for motor vehicles are inefficient in space usage as they provide multiple connection options, many of which remain unused, leading to unnecessary mechanical connections and increased space requirements in the limited engine compartment.
Innovation Solution
A circuit unit for fuses with a metallic fastening element and connecting element, where the insulating element mechanically connects the fastening and connecting elements, allowing only necessary mechanical connections, and features a space-saving design with fuse units aligned for simple assembly and reduced space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fuse blocks provide multiple connection options, then electrical energy distribution flexibility is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection function and mechanical fastening function into a single integrated fuse unit. The fuse unit includes a fastening element that directly engages with the circuit element, eliminating the need for separate mechanical connectors. This merging reduces the number of components and space required while maintaining the ability to distribute electrical energy to multiple cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuse unit is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides electrical connection, mechanical fastening, and cable securing functions. The fastening element serves both to mechanically attach the fuse unit to the circuit element and to provide the electrical connection path, allowing a single component to fulfill multiple roles and reduce overall space requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mechanical connection options are provided, then connection versatility is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connection and mechanical fastening operations into a single assembly action. The fuse unit is designed to be inserted and secured in one motion, eliminating the need for separate steps of connecting electrical terminals and fastening mechanical components. This reduces assembly complexity while maintaining the ability to connect multiple cables.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate fastening devices are used for each cable connection, then connection flexibility is improved, but space usage efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cable connection capabilities into a single compact fuse unit. The circuit element features a shared fastening structure that can secure multiple fuse units, allowing several cables to be connected through an integrated system rather than requiring separate fastening devices for each connection, thus improving space usage efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The unit has a metallic threaded bolt (18) for fixing at a feedthrough of a busbar (30), and a metallic locking pin (16) for connecting with an electrical conductor (34). A plastic block (14) mechanically connects the threaded bolt and the locking pin, where the plastic block receives and holds an electrical fuse (20). The plastic block is designed such that the used electrical fuse forms an electrical contact between the threaded bolt and the locking pin. A mechanical connection of the electrical conductor with the busbar is producible by a safety unit (12).