Inline Fuse Holder Snap-Fit Waterproof Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inline fuse holder assemblies are cumbersome for technicians to assemble due to the need to tighten compression nuts, and they lack effective waterproofing for outdoor applications like solar photovoltaic systems.
Innovation Solution
The inline fuse holder assembly features a snap-fit connection between components, forming a non-releasable, substantially waterproof seal without the need for additional locking mechanisms, and includes a dielectric outer layer to prevent water ingress, with wire connectors crimped onto wires to ensure secure and watertight connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compression nuts and tools are used to connect fuse holder pieces, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional compression nut and tool-based mechanical connection system with a snap-fit engagement mechanism. The fuse holder pieces feature complementary geometric features (protrusions and recesses) that enable tool-free assembly through simple snapping motions, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and assembly tools while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuse holder design incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features where the components automatically engage and lock together through their geometric configuration. The snap-fit mechanism provides inherent positioning and securing capabilities without requiring external tools or complex assembly procedures, making the system self-sufficient during assembly.
2Ease of operation
If wire connectors are exposed outside the holder body, then electrical connections can be made, but the connections are exposed to environmental contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates wire connectors within the holder body structure, nesting them inside protected chambers or recesses. The connectors are positioned such that they remain accessible for wire attachment while being surrounded and shielded by the holder's housing, preventing direct exposure to environmental contaminants like moisture and dust.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder body incorporates insulating and protective housing structures that enclose the wire connectors. These housing features act as protective shells, providing environmental sealing while maintaining electrical insulation, thus protecting the connectors from harmful environmental factors during operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If insulating boots are added to cover connections, then environmental protection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the environmental protection function directly into the holder body structure itself, merging the protective housing and connector enclosure into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate insulating boots or additional protective coverings, reducing assembly steps and overall device complexity while maintaining environmental protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, electrical insulation, environmental sealing, and connector protection all in one structure. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate protective components like insulating boots, simplifying the overall assembly while comprehensively addressing environmental protection requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
An inline fuse holder assembly encloses a fuse assembly including a fuse, and first and second wire connectors at respective first and second longitudinal ends of the fuse assembly. The inline fuse holder assembly includes first and second components including respective first and second connectors. The first and second connectors include mateable, non-releasable connection components configured to connect the first and second components to one another and form a substantially waterproof, non-releasable connection upon connection. The first and second components together define an enclosure for enclosing an entirety of the fuse assembly when the first and second fuse holder components are connected to one another.