Fuse-Integrated Socket Connector for Compact EV Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric connectors face challenges in compactization and cost reduction due to the need for additional components like fuse holders and conductive wires when incorporating a fuse in electric circuits, particularly in electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles.
Innovation Solution
An electric connector design featuring a bar-like plug connector and a socket connector with a fuse integrated into the socket connector, eliminating the need for a separate fuse holder and conductive wire, and allowing for compactization by aligning the fuse with the inserting/withdrawing direction and using multiple attaching portions for versatile fuse attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a fuse is incorporated in an electric circuit using a bar-like plug connector without a housing, then compactization is achieved, but additional components (conductive wire, terminal member, holder) are required increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The fuse holder is merged with the socket connector as an integrated structure. The socket connector includes a housing with an accommodation space that directly receives and holds the fuse, eliminating the need for a separate fuse holder component. This integration reduces the total number of components while maintaining the protective housing structure.
2Reliability
If a fuse is incorporated using a rectangular-shaped plug housing, then the fuse can be held, but compactization becomes difficult due to increased device size
Solution Approach 1:
The fuse is nested within the accommodation space of the socket connector's housing. The fuse holder is integrated into the housing structure, creating a nested arrangement where the fuse is contained within the protective housing without requiring additional external space. This nesting approach maintains reliability while achieving compactization.
3Reliability
If additional components (conductive wire, terminal member, holder) are added to incorporate a fuse, then the fuse can be integrated, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuse holder function is merged with the socket connector housing, eliminating the need for separate conductive wires, terminal members, and holder components. This reduction in component count directly lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable fuse integration through the integrated housing structure.
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
This design achieves compactization and cost reduction by integrating the fuse with the socket connector, ensuring reliable electrical shut-off during withdrawal and accommodating various fuse sizes and shapes, thus enhancing the overall efficiency and usability of the electric connector.
Implementation Method 1
a fuse; wherein when the plug connector is inserted to the socket connector, electric conduction is established in the electric circuit via the fuse
Data Source
AI summary
An electric connector includes a socket connector, a bar-like plug connector to be inserted/withdrawn to/from the socket connector and a fuse. When the plug connector is inserted to the socket connector, electric conduction is established in the electric circuit via the fuse. The fuse is attached to the socket connector.