Microinverter Connector Layout for Stable Compact Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Microinverters face limitations in mounting positions and assembly stability due to their miniaturized size, restricting design freedom and connector placement flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A microinverter design with independently positioned DC and AC connectors, each connected directly to a circuit board, allowing for improved structural design freedom and assembly stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If connectors are mounted on a miniaturized microinverter, then device size is reduced, but mounting position flexibility and assembly stability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidmounting position flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the connector mounting structure into separate, independently positioned connectors (DC connector and AC connector) that are spaced apart from each other on the circuit board. This segmentation allows each connector to be optimally positioned without interfering with the other, maintaining mounting flexibility despite device miniaturization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the available space on the circuit board by positioning connectors at opposite sides or corners, effectively using two-dimensional space optimization. This dimensional arrangement allows independent positioning of connectors while maintaining a compact overall device footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If connectors are closely positioned on a miniaturized device, then device size is reduced, but assembly stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidassembly stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the connector arrangement by spacing the DC connector and AC connector apart from each other on the circuit board. This separation prevents interference between connectors during assembly and ensures stable mounting of each connector independently, while the overall device remains miniaturized.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality optimization by providing specific mounting structures (connector mounting portions) at different locations on the circuit board. Each connector receives dedicated mounting support tailored to its position, ensuring assembly stability without requiring increased device size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If connectors are independently positioned, then design freedom is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign freedomVSAvoidinternal structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the connector mounting functions into the circuit board structure itself, where the circuit board serves as both the electrical connection substrate and the mechanical mounting structure for both DC and AC connectors. This integration simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining independent positioning flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit board is designed with multi-functionality, serving simultaneously as the electrical pathway carrier and as the structural support for mounting both DC and AC connectors. This universal use of the circuit board reduces the need for additional mounting components, thereby reducing device complexity despite independent connector positioning.

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

Data Source

PatentEP4645683A1microinverter
Publication Date: 2025.11.05 HANWHA SOLUTIONS CORP
  • EP4645683A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4645683A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4645683A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a microinverter. The microinverter includes a case having an internal space, a circuit board disposed inside the case, a first connector supported by the case and connected directly to one side of the circuit board, and a second connector supported by the case and connected directly to the other side of the circuit board.