Inverter-Integrated Compressor Connector Safety Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inverter-integrated electrically driven compressors face safety hazards due to the risk of contacting the inverter device while power is applied, with existing solutions increasing complexity, space requirements, and costs through the use of additional safety mechanisms or components.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a connector system where the power and communication lines are connected to the cover, with fastening means covered by the communication line connector, preventing access to the inverter housing part when the power line connector is coupled, thus ensuring safety without additional safety mechanisms and reducing size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an interlock mechanism with protective cover or interlock plate is provided to prevent accidental cover removal, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cover fastening function and the safety interlock function into a single integrated connector mechanism. The connector simultaneously performs electrical connection and mechanical locking, eliminating the need for separate interlock plates or protective covers. This merging of functions maintains safety while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides electrical power and communication connections to the inverter device, while also acting as the primary fastening mechanism for the cover. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated safety components, reducing complexity while maintaining protective functionality.
2Reliability
If an interlock switch mechanism or current control device is furnished to activate when protective cover is removed, then safety is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the safety control function from separate interlock switches or current control devices and integrates it directly into the connector mechanism itself. The connector's mechanical engagement state directly controls the electrical connection, eliminating the need for additional safety control components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector automatically provides safety protection through its own mechanical design. When the cover is properly attached, the connector engages and provides both electrical connection and mechanical retention. When the cover is removed, the connector automatically disconnects, providing self-regulating safety without external control devices.
3Reliability
If a special safety cover or additional fixing screws are furnished to prevent cover removal, then safety is improved, but the number of components and assembly operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cover attachment operation and the electrical connection operation into a single unified action. Attaching the cover simultaneously secures the inverter device mechanically and establishes electrical connections, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps for safety covers and fixing screws.
Data Source
AI summary
The purpose is to provide an inverter-integrated electrically driven compressor by which the danger of contacting an inverter device while power is being applied can be overcome in a reliable manner, without the need to provide any extra components, such as safety devices or the like. In this inverter-integrated electrically driven compressor, the inverter device is arranged housed within an inverter housing part hermetically sealed by a cover, and power and communication lines from an external power supply and a control device are connectable to the inverter device through connectors. The connector on the compressor side is furnished to the cover side, and at least one bolt of a fastening means for fastening the cover to the inverter housing part is furnished at location covered by the connector on the power line side, making access impossible, when the connector on the power line side has been coupled to the connector on the compressor side.