Inverter Hatch Connector Interlock for High-Voltage Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety mechanisms for disconnecting high-voltage electric circuits in electric or hybrid vehicle inverters are complex, costly, and space-consuming, posing a risk of electric shock during maintenance.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the disconnection function into the electrical connector of the hatch, using a conductive contact pin that disconnects when the hatch is opened, simplifying the architecture and reducing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional interlock mechanism is installed to disconnect high-voltage circuits when the hatch is opened, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases and mounting space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the safety disconnection function with the existing electrical connector of the maintenance hatch. The contact pin that establishes electrical connection is integrated directly into the hatch structure, so that opening the hatch automatically disconnects the high-voltage circuit. This eliminates the need for a separate interlock mechanism while maintaining safety functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector serving the maintenance hatch is given a dual function: it provides electrical connection for normal operation and simultaneously serves as a safety interlock mechanism. When the hatch is opened, the contact pin is automatically disconnected, achieving both electrical connection and safety protection functions through a single component.
2Reliability
If a traditional interlock mechanism is installed to disconnect high-voltage circuits, then safety is improved, but the mounting space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The safety function is merged into the existing hatch electrical connector structure, eliminating the need for additional mounting space for a separate interlock mechanism. The contact pin is integrated into the hatch assembly, utilizing the same space already required for the electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector performs multiple functions: providing electrical connection during normal operation and serving as a safety interlock when the hatch is opened. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional components and mounting space.
3Reliability
If a traditional interlock mechanism with multiple parts is assembled, then safety function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The safety interlock function is combined with the existing electrical connector components, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble separate interlock parts. The contact pin is integrated into the hatch assembly, reducing the total number of components and assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector serves dual purposes: normal electrical connection and safety disconnection. This eliminates the need for additional safety mechanism components, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a power electrical device (20), said device (20) comprising a housing (20A) inside which is mounted at least one power electronic component and an electronic control unit (220), said electronic control unit (220) comprising an electronic board (221) for controlling said power electronic component (210), said housing (20A) comprising a plurality of walls, at least one (20A1) of which delimits an opening closed by a hatch (21), said hatch (21) comprising an electrical connector (22) passing through said hatch (21), said electrical connector (22) comprising a plurality of electrical connection pins. One of the connection pins, referred to as the "contact pin," constitutes a conductive portion of the electronic board (221), the disconnection of which, by removing the hatch (21), causes the power electronic module (210) to stop.