Integrated Bus Bar for Motor Switchgear Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connecting devices for electric motors to electronic switchgear units require multiple conducting components and complex assembly processes, leading to increased costs and space requirements, while also lacking efficient integration of signal conducting units.

Innovation Solution

A connecting device utilizing a linear bus bar with a bowed first interface for crimping the drive current line and a second interface for a clamping or plug-in connection to the electronic switchgear unit, integrated with a housing element for stabilization and insulation, and optionally incorporating a signal conducting unit, reducing the number of components and assembly complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple conducting components (cable lugs, copper terminal blocks, copper bolts) are used to connect electric motor to control unit, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but device complexity and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of conducting components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate conducting components (cable lugs, terminal blocks, bolts) into a single integrated bus bar structure that performs all connection functions. The bus bar includes integrated connection elements for electrical contact and mechanical fastening, eliminating the need for separate components while maintaining reliable electrical connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The bus bar is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides electrical conduction, mechanical support, and connection fastening. It includes multiple connection elements that can engage with different types of terminals and housing structures, making it a universal connector that replaces multiple specialized components.

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

2Reliability

If multiple conducting components and assembly elements are used, then secure electrical connection is achieved, but assembly complexity and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple assembly functions into a single bus bar component that can be installed in one operation. The bus bar includes pre-formed connection elements and mounting features that allow simultaneous electrical connection and mechanical fastening, reducing assembly steps and production complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If multiple plugs and seals are used for connection, then reliable electrical and sealing connection is achieved, but space requirements and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesealing connection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates sealing functionality directly into the bus bar structure and housing connection elements. The bus bar and housing form an integrated sealed assembly that eliminates the need for separate plugs and seals, reducing space requirements while maintaining sealing reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10748720B2Connection device and method for electrically connecting an electric motor to an electronic switching unit, electronic switching unit, connection unit and device system with at least one connection device
Publication Date: 2020.08.18 ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
  • US10748720B2 patent drawing
  • US10748720B2 patent drawing
  • US10748720B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connecting device may electrically connect an electric motor to an electronic switchgear unit. The connecting device may include a bus bar that has a first interface, a second interface, and a linear section therebetween, where the first interface is bowed in a direction at least partially transverse to a longitudinal direction of the linear section of the bus bar. The first interface may be configured to electrically connect to at least one line that conducts a drive current of the electric motor through a crimp connection, and the second interface may be configured to electrically connect to the electronic switchgear unit.