Integrated Multipole Connector for Hybrid Vehicle Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors face challenges in integrating different current capacities and shielding structures, leading to size increase and waterproofing issues in hybrid vehicle electric power distributors, as they require separate shielding structures for small-current and large-current circuits, making it difficult to reduce connector size while maintaining effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
An integrated multipole connector design that includes a female housing with shielded wire units for both small-current and large-current wires, featuring elastic contact points and seals to prevent moisture ingress, allowing for electric field shielding and efficient current transfer between different current capacity connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connectors with different shielding structures (individual for small-current, collective for large-current) are integrated into a single multipole connector, then the number of connector types is reduced, but the connector size increases and waterproofing becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the first wire unit with individual shielding structure inside the second wire unit with collective shielding structure. The first wire unit is inserted through the second wire unit, allowing both shielding structures to coexist in a compact integrated configuration. This nested arrangement enables integration of different connector types without proportionally increasing the overall connector volume.
2Ease of manufacture
If connectors with different shielding structures are integrated, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but waterproofing reliability deteriorates due to increased integration complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible waterproof seal (grommet) that is fitted around the first wire unit where it passes through the second wire unit. This flexible sealing element conformally seals the interface between the two different shielding structures, maintaining waterproofing reliability despite the integrated design. The flexible seal adapts to the nested configuration and prevents moisture ingress at the complex junction point.
3Device complexity
If a single integrated connector design is used for both small-current and large-current circuits, then the number of parts is reduced, but the shielding effectiveness for different current capacities may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different shielding structures at different locations within the integrated connector. The first wire unit (small-current) receives individual shielding, while the second wire unit (large-current) receives collective shielding. Each location receives the appropriate shielding type for its current capacity requirements, maintaining shielding effectiveness while achieving integration. The nested configuration allows local optimization of shielding for each circuit type.
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
The integrated connector reduces the number of types and sizes of connectors needed, simplifies wiring processes, decreases manufacturing costs, and enhances waterproofing, thereby reducing the overall size of the electric power distributor while maintaining effective shielding and current transfer.
Implementation Method 1
a first wire unit (12) having a shield contact (123) for electric field shielding and a second wire unit (13) having a shield cover (133) for electric field shielding
Implementation Method 2
The first contact part may come into elastic contact with the inner surface of the front end of the male shield shell when the front end of the female shield shell is inserted into the male shield shell
Implementation Method 3
a seal (16) preventing moisture from being introduced between the female housing (111) and the male housing (211)
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an integrated multipole connector, and more particularly, an integrated multipole connector that can be used as a multipole connector integrating a plurality of connectors to which different current capacities and shielding structures are applied.